CUSHING “PERFECTION” DIRECT DYES

Each ½ ounce jar contains enough to dye about two pounds of material. Use more or less for darker or lighter colors. These dyes are intended for use on cotton and other plant fibers such as basket reed.

Determine the dry weight of the fiber to be dyed (approximate is good enough if you do not plan to duplicate your results). Be sure sizing or other fabric treatment has been removed. Thoroughly soak the goods in warm water.

Dissolve dye in a cup of boiling water (use a ¼ oz per pound of material to be dyed for a medium shade).

Fill a stainless steel, glass or enamel vessel with enough clean water to cover the material. There must be enough room for the water to circulate freely, or the results will be blotchy. Place on heat and bring to a simmer.

Dissolve 4 ounces of salt for each pound of material into the dye bath, and add the dye solution. Now introduce the material. Bring to a simmer, and keep there for 20 minutes, stirring constantly.

Use an after-wash for best color-fastness. Dissolve 4 ounces of salt and a cup of white vinegar per pound of material in cool water. A plastic container is fine for this part, since it will not have to be heated. Rinse the dyed material in this solution and allow to dry. (Or use Retayne.)