Fabric Dyes

Recolour & Create With Fabric Dyes At Spotlight

Dyeing a stained garment or a well-worn pillowcase is an easy and sustainable way to restore new life to your favourite textiles. Whether you're wanting to change the colour of a much-loved top or create a custom tone of fabric for a sewing project, Spotlight has fabric dyes including synthetic fabric dye, washing machine dye and powder dye. We also have a fabulous selection of tie-dye materials and kits so you can create stunning rainbow patterns on plain tees or calico tote bags. Transform your plain fabrics into something completely different with fabric dyes!

What Do I Need To Dye Clothes & Create Tie Dye?

Once you've selected your fabric dye and have your garment ready, there are only a few things you will need. Depending on the type of dye and the method you choose, you will also need an old stock pot, bucket or just your washing machine. Many dyes also call for the use of table salt as a fixative.

Gloves and an apron are essential for protecting your hands and the clothes you're wearing. If you have a tie dye project in mind, make sure you have plenty of rubber bands, and cover your chosen work surface with a plastic drop sheet in case there are any spills!

Fabric Dyes FAQ

What kinds of fabrics can be dyed?

Most fabrics and garments can be coloured with dye, but it's important to make sure you select the right type of fabric dye for the fibre content. Natural fibres such as cotton, linen and wool will most readily take the dye, but you can also purchase specialist synthetic fabric dyes for items made from nylon, acrylic or polyester.

If you're dyeing a garment made from natural fibres, remember that fastenings such as zips and buttons are often plastic, so they won't change colour to match - so have some replacements ready! Be sure to also check that your garment is safe to launder, and avoid clothes that have special treatments, beaded trims, or are dry clean only.

How to dye fabric?

There are many methods you can use to dye your fabrics or clothes, including in a washing machine or stovetop. Most dyes can be used with different dyeing methods - just be sure to read the included instructions carefully, and make sure you have enough packs of dye for the fabric weight so you get the desired result. As a rule of thumb, it's much easier to go from light to dark, or refresh your garment or clothes with the same colour dye.

How to set dye in fabric?

If instructions are carefully followed, your dye should be fairly well set once you're done. Manufacturers will indicate to add salt or sometimes vinegar as a mordant (dye fixative). You can also find packs of dye fixatives in Spotlight's fabric dye range. If you want some extra peace of mind, launder your newly dyed clothing separately for the next couple of washes.

Restore Your Favourite Textiles With Spotlight's Fabric Dyes & Sewing Supplies

Refreshing or recolouring clothes and bed linen is easy with the right fabric dye. At Spotlight, our fabric dyes come in a huge range of colours and suit most fabric types. You can also find everything you need to complete your dyeing project such as zips and buttons from our extensive selection of haberdashery. We also discover some great tips and tricks on how to tie dye in our informative Create article here! You can make your purchase online and have your order shipped for home delivery, or pop into your local store where our team members are always happy to help and advise. If you're not already a VIP member, be sure to sign up today for exclusive membership benefits including discounts, member-only events and early sales alerts!