As some of you know, I've taken up a new hobby...rug hooking. I've always LOVED the look of hooked rugs and wall hangings. When classes were offered with a nearby fiber group, I knew that now was the time to begin. I soon learned that this is not a cheap hobby. The price of wool averages about $26 a yard. Wow, there's gotta be a better way, I thought. Goodwill to the rescue! After carefully looking through the racks and reading labels, I found I could buy 100% wool skirts and coats for $3-$5 a piece. Of course, it takes a bit of time and effort to take them apart, but it's worth it!
The colors and patterns are bright, but a bit boring as is. It's easy to dye wool with water, vinegar and heat. You don't even need acid dyes. The color leeches out of the fabric and can create some beautiful tie-dye effects.
First, I layered the fabric and then rolled, twisted and tied it.
Those bundles went into a pot to cook, cook and cook some more. I added vinegar at the end to set the colors...and voila:
Gorgeous multi-colored wool fabric which will really give my hooked pieces dimension. I am having so much fun dying, I am not even sure what kinds of patterns I will be hooking. Right now, I'm going to work on building my fabric stash....I've got time to figure the rest out later!
Very interesting , i love what you do.
Posted by: Gisele Doyon | May 11, 2017 at 10:29 PM