Updated at: 03-08-2022 - By: Sienna Lewis

Have you ever found a blanket you adore, only to realize it doesn’t come in the color you need? If you’re looking for a solution to this predicament, why not learn how to dye a wool blanket? To begin, you’ll need a nice pot, vinegar, water, and color.

If you have any old or extra wool blankets sitting around, learning this skill could come in handy. What a neat thing to tell guests if you colour your own blankets! Here’s a comprehensive guide on dying wool blankets, with information on the best dyes to use and how to be safe while you’re at it.

What Are The Dyes You Can Use

Acid dye

This is a very common dye for wool and other animal-based fabrics. The word “acid” on the dye may cause you concern. The acidic nature of the solution aids with dye adhesion, so there’s no need to worry.

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Natural dye

Roots, leaves, flowers, and other plants can all be used to create a natural dye. In spite of its limited color palette compared to synthetic dyes, this renewable resource has the potential to reduce pollution levels.

All-Purpose dye

If neither of those two are sold locally, general-purpose dyes are a good alternative. Acid dye and acid type leveling agents are common components. Even though it can be used with any fabric, it may not produce the desired results with some of them.

Beginner’s Guide On Dyeing A Wool Blanket

Step #1. Choose an appropriate dye pot

Wool blankets may need a specialized dye pot for some dyeing processes. Since even plant-based fabric dyes can be toxic if ingested, you can’t use your regular cooking pot for dying.

Size is another factor to think about. If you use a larger object, the dye won’t penetrate your blanket. You also don’t want to skimp on size, as that could lead to color variation.

Step #2. Combine a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water

To ensure that the colors adhere to your wool blanket, you must first set the blanket. A pail of clean water and some vinegar will do the trick. If you want to get the blanket to stay put even better, add a quarter cup of salt.

To ensure uniform distribution, stir your solution thoroughly with a stick. For half an hour, soak your blanket in the vinegar and water mixture. If you have the time, let it sit upright for a while longer.

Step #3. Dip the blanket in a pot of hot water

Prepare your dye baths, because now the real fun can begin. Wool blankets should be soaked in vinegar and water, then promptly thrown into a kettle containing boiling water and fabric dye.

We prefer our showers to be as hot as possible. You should use a stick or skewer to stir your blanket occasionally while it’s in the dye pot. That way, you won’t have to worry about missing any spots when dying your blanket.

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Step #4. Place it in a microwave

Once your wool blanket has soaked up the colors you want, you may throw it in the microwave to set the dyes. The blanket can be heated in the microwave for 5 minutes if it is placed in a microwave-safe container first. Because of the high temperature, the colors will remain on the blanket.

Leave the blanket for 5 minutes to cool off before proceeding. The blanket, while cozy, is rather hot, so please handle it with care.

Step #5. Rinse it in cold water

After letting the blanket cool down, you can rinse it in cold water to get rid of any lingering vinegar smell. When you wash your blanket thereafter, it won’t bleed. When washing the blanket, you could use a mild detergent.

If, however, your blanket’s color runs while being washed, you may have followed the instructions above incorrectly. Please start from the beginning again.

How To Keep Safe While Dyeing Fabrics

You may be forgiven for supposing that dyeing is a harmless pastime. You’re absolutely true that it’s entertaining, but it’s not always without risk. As you get experience dying wool blankets, make safety measures a habit.

To begin, read the warnings on the dye’s packaging. Formulas vary by brand and can be harmful if not handled appropriately. Some colors have strict temperature requirements for storage, while others can’t be used with certain chemicals.

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There’s danger in applying fabric dyes with bare hands. You should wear gloves when working with these dyes to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals they contain.

Conclusion

How to dye a wool blanket can be accomplished in a variety of ways. To get you started on this kind of handicraft, we’ve included a simple one. Dyeing your quilt can be a lot of fun, but make sure to follow all safety precautions.