Felting Hand Dyed Yarn

wewantmore · 05-17-2007, 01:28 PM

It has occured to me that my colors might bleed. Is this possible and how can I prevent it?

I am using two different colors (blue and pink). I ask b/c the blue yarn has left my hands blue and my bamboo needles blue.

I do have those 'color catcher' things for bleeding laundry, can I put one in the pillow case to help and will it most likely bleed onto my jeans?

Oh the horror.

Thanks in advance.
Michelle

Braden · 05-17-2007, 07:22 PM

I don't think you can help it.

Hildegard_von_Knittin · 05-17-2007, 08:56 PM

If you've used something that will keep the dye from running, like vinegar, you should be okay. I would do a test with a towel or something that you don't mind ruining if it happens.

SandraEllen · 05-18-2007, 04:51 AM

Which dye process did you use? What you can do will probably depend on that...

wewantmore · 05-18-2007, 10:42 AM

I didn't hand dye it, I bought it that way so I have no clue what process was used.

I understand I can't not make it run, just wanted to see if there was a way to keep my pink um pink.

SandraEllen · 05-18-2007, 12:32 PM

hmm... bummer. I've wondered about the color sucking balls too...

let us know how it turns out!

wewantmore · 05-19-2007, 01:53 PM

Thanks Sandra.

Well it turned out great. I did put a Shout Color Catcher in the pillow case and it caught all the color. (Pink.

I thought for sure the blue would run) But the bag looks good and my white pillow case is still white.

Michelle

SandraEllen · 05-20-2007, 04:44 AM

AWESOME!!!

I'm glad to hear that it worked and that your piece isn't ruined!!! I'll have to remember that...

midnightskyfibers · 05-20-2007, 06:08 AM

Before you felt the item heat set it with vinegar by soaking your item in HOT water (180-195, not quite boiling) for awhile until it is wet through. Add a glug of vinegar-~ 1/4 cup- or another type of acid (specifically acetic acid)- any vinegar or citric acid will do as will lemon juice in a pinch. Heat item in a hot water bath with the vinegar as you would to mordant for about 30-45 minutes being careful not to felt. Test colorfastness by rinsing and extracting the water in a washing machine. If after 4-5 rinses it still bleeds, mordant (heat with vinegar) again.