How to Speckle Dye Yarn (with Kool Aid)
A FiberArtsy.com Tutorial
Speckled, sprinkled, spotted yarn – whatever you want to call it – is all the rage these days. With good reason, it’s a super cool way to dye yarn. I love the random, sprinkled effect.
In the past, I've shared many yarn dyeing techniques including How to Hand Paint Yarn and Kettle Dyeing Yarn but this was my first attempt at Speckle Dyeing.
Since I was just experimenting with this new yarn dyeing technique, I used Kool-Aid drink powder instead of my usual professional Jacquard Acid Dyes. Kool-Aid makes a great yarn dye with a variety of bright colors. Plus, it’s non-toxic so a good option for dyeing with kids.
Safety Note: If you do use professional acid dyes, keep in mind that you need cookware dedicated to dyeing only. It will no longer be safe for regular food use. Also, make sure to wear a dust mask and cover all of your work surfaces.
Step by step instructions can be found at FiberArtsy.com (link below)
Supplies Needed:
– Wool Yarn (Sheep, alpaca, etc. – not synthetic!)
– Kool Aid Drink Packets (various colors)
– Baking or Casserole Dish
– Gloves (optional)
– Fork
– Water
– Microwave (and plastic wrap) OR Oven (and aluminum foil)
Soak the yarn in warm water and squeeze out. Then, just like the name suggests, you 'sprinkle' the dye (in this case Kool Aid) onto the yarn.
Finally, you heat set the dye. Rinse, dry and the fun & funky yarn is now ready for your next knit or crochet project!
Complete instructions at FiberArtsy.com (link below)
This is a great dyeing project for beginners. Make sure to check out my other yarn dyeing tutorials as well.
Enjoy!
Annette
FiberArtsy.com
Comments
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My son used to dye his hair w/Kool •Aid. -
I would like to try this, unfortunately haven't been able to get kool aid in packets here for many years, I will try online and see if I have any luck. I have 40 or so balls of irish virgin wool yarn that has been sitting in my stash for a few years, haven't used it because it is a plain off white colour and not a suitable colour for anyone I knit for, would love to use this idea for that.
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We don't have dollar General in Canada.
Frequently asked questions
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How do you heat set the color?