Cheap Paintings

Cheap, no fuss fabric dye?

I am a college student living in the dorms and would like to dye some fabric to make wall art. Does anyone know of a cheap, no fuss way to make fabric dye? I have limited resources: no bathtub or large sink, no stove or other heat source, not a lot of room, and not a lot of cash. I also don't want to buy fabric dye because it's $2-3 a pacakge and makes more than I will ever use. I plan on using cheap cotton material and using several tie dye and batik methods. Thanks in advance!

Public Comments

1. If you're just making wall art and will never need to wash the cotton, then you'll probably be able to stain it with kool-aid (the kind without sugar, mixed to a paste or thick liquid) or food coloring. It won't actually be dyed though (not in the fiber, just on it) and the colors will probably run if it ever gets wet. If you can find some cheap nylon fabric to use instead of the cotton, the colors will stay better and be brighter.
2. Koolaid--no kidding. This is what I've been using to dye my needlework fabric! Takes some experimentation and practice, but isn't terribly hard. Start light--you can always redye it if needed. Works well in spray bottles for a misted effect, or can be sponged directly on the fabric, too. I use a packet of koolaid (no sugar!), start w/1wt of water, and have heard that a splash of vinegar sets it better. (haven't tried that). Just dissolve it in warm water. Play around with it, using cheap muslin first. Have fun!