Tie-dyeing doesn’t always require rubber bands. Most people recommend using rubber bands for tie-dyeing because of how quick and easy it is to hold your fabric in shape, but it’s not always the best if you want to achieve a precise, specific look.
Instead of rubber bands, use strings. They are more durable and can give you more control over how the tie-dye lines will look. Strings are not much more difficult to use compared to rubber bands, especially if you know what to look for.
So, how do you use string for tie dye? To use string for tie dye, make sure you use the right type of string, like kite string, that can withstand moisture and dye without falling apart and won’t shed fibers onto the fabric you are dying. How tight you tie your string will affect the final design.
If you have a specific design you want to achieve with tie-dye, using strings to tie up your garment can greatly improve your success. Let’s take a look at how you can tie-dye using strings instead of rubber bands.
Best Types Of String To Use For Tie-Dye
If precision is your goal, then not every type of string will work. You will want something that is strong, with minimal stretch, and won’t break down when it is submerged in dye and water.
You’ll also need the string to be smooth, as something like macrame twine may scratch and damage the fabric, not to mention the rough texture may also show up on the tie-dye pattern.
Kite String
Kite string is a type of string that can be commonly used to wrap a garment for tie-dyeing. Kite string is made from twisted nylon twine, making it very flexible and smooth. This type of string meets all of the requirements above, plus it is very affordable and can be found in most craft stores.
Sinew
Waved threads, also known as artificial sinew, are another strong contender. It is a flat thread that has been coated with wax, so it is very strong and smooth. This type of thread won’t absorb any dye, so the lines created are more precise and clean.
Using string gives you more control over the tie-dye pattern because you can apply as much or as little pressure as you want. That means you can fold and crumple the garment how you like it and use multiple strings to create a series of ties around the garment.
When tying, you can decide to create very loose knots for a relaxed look or very tight knots for a very clean and sharp look. This is what we mean by control because the strings won’t force you to go a certain way, compared to rubber bands.
DIY Tie Dye String Kit
Here is what you need to make your own tie-dye string kit:
- Kite strings or artificial sinew, cut into even pieces that are long enough to tie around your garment
- A garment of your choice
- Fabric dye in the colors that you want
- A bottle
- Safety gloves
How To Tie Dye With String
Since tie-dyeing with string creates a clean and precise look, it is best that you know the look that you want to create before tie-dyeing. This will take some research and browsing before getting started.
Step 1: Mix
Mix the dye following the instructions and pour it into the bottle(s) for easier application.
Step 2: Wash
Wash or wet the garment to get it ready for dyeing.
Step 3: Fold
Fold the garment into the shape that you want by either twisting, folding, or crumpling it.
Once you have the shape that you want, use the strings (cut evenly) to place under the garment, spacing them evenly or crisscrossing them to create the desired tie-dye effect. You can also use one long string and wrap it around the garment over and over for a classic tie-dyeing effect.
You can apply more or less pressure when tieing to create the effect that you want. Take as much time as you want in this step since it will decide how the garment will look after dyeing. Make sure to tie each string the same way unless you are going for a varied pattern.
If the loose ends of the strings are too long after tying, you can use scissors to cut them off before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Color
Use the color bottles to apply the color to your garment, making sure to get the color evenly on both sides. In this step, it will be helpful to lay your garment on a rack so that the dye can drain from it, or it will be soaked in a pool of dye and ruin the overall effect.
Step 5: Seal
Place your garment in a plastic or Ziploc bag and leave it for about 24 hours. The plastic bag will prevent the garment from drying completely while the dye takes effect.
Step 6: Remove
After 24 hours, remove your garment from the Ziploc bag. With a pair of scissors, cut away the strings carefully so you won’t damage the fabric.
Step 7: Rinse
Rinse your garment until the water runs clear. Then, you can wash it as normal and enjoy your string tie-dye garment!
Up Next: How Long To Let Tie-Dye Sit Before Rinsing?
