How to Dye Yarn in the Microwave

Dyeing is the process of staining a fiber so that it takes on a new color. When you are dyeing a natural protein-based fiber like silk or wool, you can dye the fiber in a microwave. Use Kool-aid mix to color your silk or wool yarn any way you like. When you are using this process, you do not need to use a mordant to fix the dye, making microwave dyeing a convenient process that does not require alum or iron.

Bowls
Yarn
Kool-Aid packages
White vinegar
Pyrex bowl

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a bowl with hot water and soak the protein-based yarn in it for 30 minutes.
- 2
  Mix one package of Kool-Aid with a solution that is one part white vinegar to three parts water in a bowl. The more liquid you add to the package of Kool-Aid, the lighter the color will be. Use 1 package of Kool-Aid for every ounce of wool.
- 3
  Remove the yarn from the hot water and squeeze out all the excess water.
- 4
  Spread a large sheet of plastic wrap in the sink and place the yarn on the plastic wrap.
- 5
  Pour the Kool-Aid, water and vinegar mixture over the fiber slowly, saturating it as thoroughly as possible.
- 6
  Roll plastic wrap up, covering the yarn completely.
- 7
  Secure the plastic to the yarn by wrapping masking tape around the plastic.
- 8
  Place the plastic-wrapped yarn into a Pyrex bowl.
- 9
  Place the Pyrex bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for two minutes.
- 10
  Remove the Pyrex bowl from the microwave and allow it to sit for two minutes.
- 11
  Squeeze the plastic-wrapped yarn lightly to more evenly distribute the dye.
- 12
  Place the plastic-wrapped yarn back in the Pyrex container and place the Pyrex container back in the microwave, heating it on high again for two minutes.
- 13
  Remove the Pyrex bowl from the microwave and allow it to sit for two minutes.
- 14
  Remove the yarn from the plastic wrap and rinse it out in lukewarm water.
- 15
  Hang the yarn up to air dry.

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