Sunday, February 8, 2009

How does one dye angora wool?

There are many ways that people choose to dye angora wool/fiber or the hand spun yarn. One of the easiest and cheapest way to add color do white color fiber is by utilizing Kool aide. Yes, you read right, Kool aide! It is quite simple, one needs to get some water, I prefer to heat it and at nice temperature, add 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar and add the fiber or yarn. On a separate container, mix the Kool aide and let it sit. Then, remove the fiber/yarn from the warm water/vinegar, and squeeze it lightly to remove the excess water, but do not wring it or it will felt. Then place the wool or yarn in a microwavable pot and add the Kool aide coloring. Place it in the microwave for about 2 minutes, you will see the color is absorbed into the fiber and what is left is clear liquid. Then, you can wring it again, place in heated water to remove any coloring that might not have adhered to the fiber/yarn and wring it and then place aside to dry. If you want darker colors, you can combine Kool aide colorings. Overall, you will get a nice palette of colors for you to enjoy!

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