Dyeing in Living Color
Wednesday was a very fun day (as in an adult feeling like a child again.) I always love dyeing yarn, because it reminds me of dyeing eggs as a child. The whole kitchen was busy with jars of dye, yarn, and just a hint of vinegar. I usually kettle dye, but I wanted more distinct color separation this time and a less mottled look. Using old cookie sheets, I placed the yarn in a circle and proceeded to dye three to four inch segments of colors. On one yarn, I purposefully left a little white showing to finish off the colors that I had in mind.
I then placed the hand-painted yarn into the oven at 300 degrees and let it bake for a half an hour. Yes, I did say bake. Wool is naturally fire resistant and the heat helps every last bit of dye soak into the yarn for rich vibrant colors. The dyes I use are completely colorfast and will not fade with normal use.
Although the yarn is of a weight that is commonly used for socks, these yarns would make great hats, scarves, gloves, or whatever project you have in mind.
This brightly colored yarn can be purchased here:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=44512142
This yarn is my husband's favorite.
It can be found here:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=44508251
And finally, this yarn is my favorite with the deep rich colors and a subtle silken sheen.
It can be found here:http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vl_other_2&listing_id=44510115
For those in the Tacoma area, dyeing, spinning, basic knitting, and crochet lessons are available. Contact naturallyspun[at]gmail.com for details.
