Ice Dyeing in the Microwave

I am so addicted to ice dyeing as it gives both brilliant color and is very easy and fast to do. It's also a safe process if you follow the suggestions for safe use. Wear a mask throughout the entire process and gloves. Use designated equipment and a place away from food (kitchen) while dyeing fabric.

I have many blogs that detail the process in step by steps if you're interested in pursuing this. Basically, you need a microwave, a microwave safe bowl, ice and fabric. I use Procion MX dyes as the colorant and soda ash which is the mordant and holds the color permanently in the fabric. The samples above are done on a mercerized cotton on the left, silk organza on the right. Both the cotton and peach organza were dyed in the same batch. You can see that both have brilliant color. The green organza is also intense; you can achieve a softer look by using less dye powder.

Here are some of the finished pieces...I love the way each one is a total surprise, never knowing what to expect or where the patterning may fall.

They're all China silk (also known as Habotai) and are 8mm weight (8 momme...pronounced "mummy" as in "Return of the Mummy"). This is a pretty common weight for the China silk scarves. I like to pin them on the design wall next to each other so I can see the variety of colors.....how many blues etc.; they will all be going to my gallery space at Woolworth Walk

More results...I love the one on the left as it looks like roses. I do document all the color combos to know the more popular ones...a little bit more work but a good marketing tool.

Many are very bright which is the nature of this process...also using 3 dyes colors will give you some great blends; I try and stay within the color way itself...the other colors I use are close or will blend to make a combination which is pleasing.

So after they are done and tagged, off they go to Woolworth. Business is picking up and hopeful we'll have lots of new people ready to spruce up their walls and their wardrobe. 

The last visit to my booth to deliver scarves was just a couple of weeks ago and it felt good to be out and about (with a mask) and vaccine.

It's great fun to be a part of this wonderful gallery and downtown Asheville is so beautiful this time of year ...So please stop by, we are downstairs on the right # 235...so "we" are myself and my great bud...Mary Stori who makes wonderful wall art and felted items.

Hope to see you soon...