How to Dye Denim: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

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Simple ways to dye natural or synthetic jeans
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Dyeing your jeans is a great way to refresh a faded color or give your denim new life with a bold, exciting color. And luckily, dyeing jeans is pretty simple. In this article, we’ll teach you all the steps to dye jeans in a bucket or sink, on the stove, or in the washing machine. Plus, get answers to common questions about dyeing jeans and tips from arts and crafts specialist Amy Guerrero.

How to Dye Denim Jeans

  1. Weigh your jeans to find out how much dye to use, then wash them and squeeze out excess water.
  2. Fill a bucket or sink with 2 to 3 gallons (7.6 to 11.4 L) of hot water and add the required amount of dye.
  3. Submerge the jeans for 30-60 minutes, stirring so the dye coats the fabric evenly.
  4. Remove the jeans when they reach your desired color and squeeze out the excess dye.
  5. Rinse the jeans until the water runs clear, then wash them by themselves in cold water.
  6. Allow them to air dry by hanging them up or laying them flat.
Section 1 of 4:

How to Dye Jeans in a Sink or Bucket

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  1. The amount of fabric dye you need depends on how much your jeans weigh, so place them on a scale and note the weight. Each dye is different, so read the instructions on the package to find out how much you’ll need based on your jeans’ weight. In most cases, use 1 ⁄ 2 cup (120 mL) or half a bottle of dye for every 1 pound (500 g) of dry fabric. [1]
    • Generally, 1/2 to 1 bottle of fabric dye should be enough to dye 1 pair of jeans. If your jeans are more than 1 pound (500 g), however, get another bottle of dye to be safe.
  2. Washing your jeans and removing visible stains beforehand helps ensure they have a uniform color after dyeing. Scrub them in warm, soapy water by hand or run them through the washing machine per their care instructions. Do not use fabric softener, however you choose to wash them. When your jeans are clean, squeeze out the excess water but don’t dry them; wet fabric absorbs dye more evenly than dry fabric. [2]
    • Wash your jeans regardless of if they are old or new. Jeans fresh off the rack often contain a chemical coating that makes them look nice in-store but prevents dye from adhering properly. Used jeans may contain dirt and oils that will prevent the dye from sticking, as well.
    • Wash the jeans according to the instructions on their tag. Most can be washed in the washer, but some need to be hand-washed.
    • Pay attention to the water temperature. Most jeans will require cold water, but some can withstand warm water.
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  3. Cover your work surface with newspaper, a plastic bag, or a plastic tablecloth. Next, pull on an apron or change into clothes that you don’t mind ruining. Don a pair of rubber gloves to protect your skin from stains and hot water. Dye can be pungent, so open a window or turn on a fan to ventilate the area. [3]
    • If you have nothing to cover your work surface with, plan to work carefully. Have some bleach, rubbing alcohol, or acetone on hand to wipe off stains.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Fill a bucket or sink with 2 to 3 gallons (7.6 to 11.4 L) of hot water that's around 140 °F (60 °C). Next, shake up your bottle of dye and pour your desired amount into the water. Give the water a good stir with a wooden stick or spoon; make sure that you won't use the utensil for cooking again. [4]
    • If you are using powdered dye , mix it with 1 cup (240 mL) of hot water first.
    • Use twice as much dye for darker colors. For example, instead of using 1/2 a bottle of black dye, use a full bottle.
    • If tap water doesn’t get hot enough, heat the water on the stove until it reaches the correct temperature.
    • There should be enough water in your container for the jeans to move freely.
    • To test the color of the dye, dip a paper towel into it. If the color is too light, add more dye. If it’s too dark, add more water.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Salt helps enhance the color of the dye while dish soap promotes even dyeing. Double-check the instructions that came with your dye; most dyes require salt and dish soap, but some don’t. Mix both the salt and the soap into the dye bath until they dissolve. [5]
    • If your jeans weigh more than 1 pound (500 g), double the amount of salt and dish soap.
  6. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Place the jeans in the dye bath and push them down with a wooden stick to ensure they’re submerged. For the first 10 minutes, stir slowly and continuously to make sure the dye adheres evenly. After that, stir at regular intervals (every 5-10 minutes or so) and let the jeans soak for up to an hour. [6]
    • It typically takes at least 30 minutes to ensure the color takes fully, but the exact time varies depending on the fabric blend of the jeans.
    • Guerrero says the longer the jeans soak, the darker the color will be: “Let the jeans sit in the dye for longer in order for the fibers to have more time to bond and create more vibrant colors.”
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Pull your jeans out of the dye every few minutes to see how the color is coming along. When you achieve your desired color, remove them from the bucket or sink and squeeze out the excess dye. Remember, jeans look darker when wet, so they will appear lighter after they dry. [7]
    • If the color still isn’t dark enough, put the jeans back into the dye bath and let them soak for another 30 minutes or so, stirring every 10 minutes.
  8. A dye fixative , or a mordant, is a chemical that helps dye adhere to fabric to enhance the color and prevent bleeding and fading. Fill another clean bucket or sink with 3 gallons (11 L) of hot water and pour in 1 ⁄ 2 cup (120 mL) of dye fixative per pound (500 g) of fabric. Submerge the jeans in the water and stir slowly and continuously, letting the jeans soak for 20 minutes. [8]
    • Continue to the following step whether you used a dye fixative or not.
  9. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    It’s easiest to do this by holding the jeans under running water, like from the tap in a sink or bathtub. However, it’s also possible to rinse them in a bucket. Dunk the jeans into the bucket, take them out, and squeeze them. Change the water each time you dunk them until the water remains clear. [9]
  10. Read the instructions on the care tag inside your jeans to find out how to wash them. In most cases, expect to use cool water and a gentle cycle. Wash the jeans by themselves to prevent the dye from staining your other clothes. [10]
    • The dye may fade a little in the wash. If you're worried about this, turn the jeans inside out first. [11]
  11. Air drying is the best and safest way to dry your dyed jeans. If you’re in a hurry, however, it’s okay to dry the jeans halfway in the dryer, then hang them up to finish air-drying. Don’t leave the jeans in the dryer for a full cycle, however, as this could damage them. [12]
    • In general, a half cycle of a dryer takes anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes.
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Section 2 of 4:

How to Dye Synthetic Jeans on the Stovetop

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  1. Dyeing jeans on the stove is very similar to dyeing them in a bucket or sink. Weigh your jeans dry to determine how much dye to use, then wash them and wring out excess water so they absorb the dye more easily. Cover your workspace with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth, and protect your clothes and skin with an apron and rubber gloves. [13]
    • In general, dyeing jeans in a bucket or sink works well for dyeing natural fabrics like jeans that are 100% cotton. If your jeans contain synthetic materials, like polyester, the only way to achieve the desired effect is by dyeing them with the stovetop method.
    • You can also dye natural fabrics using the stovetop method. In fact, it often gives the fabric a darker or bolder color than using the bucket/sink method.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Fill the pot with enough water so that the jeans can move around freely. Cover the pot and heat the water until it’s just below boiling (at about 200 degrees F/93 degrees Celsius). [14]
    • Make sure to use a pot you don’t cook with.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    When the water starts to simmer, add 1 cup (273 g) of salt to enhance the color and 1 tsp (5 ml) of dish soap to promote even dyeing. If your jeans are 100% polyester or are at least 35% synthetic material, use 2 bottles of fabric dye (or 4 packages of powdered dye), as synthetic materials don’t absorb color well. Mix everything together until the dye and salt are dissolved and evenly distributed. [15]
    • If your jeans are made of natural materials and you’re just looking for a dark or bold color, use 1 bottle of dye (or 2 packages of powdered dye), or double whatever amount is recommended by your dye’s instructions based on the weight of your jeans.
    • To test the color of the dye, dip a paper towel into the mixture. If it’s too dark, add more water, and if it’s too light, add more dye.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Add the jeans to the dye bath, using a wooden stick to fully submerge them. Do not turn off the stove or remove the dye bath from heat, as the high temperature is what will give your jeans the bold or dark color you’re looking for. [16]
  5. Stir slowly and continuously for the first 10 minutes your jeans are soaking, as this ensures an even dye job. Leave your polyester or synthetic jeans in the dye bath for at least 30 minutes to ensure the color takes, stirring and checking the color every 10 minutes or so. When you achieve the desired color, remove the jeans from the dye bath and squeeze out the excess dye. [17]
    • The longer you leave the jeans to soak, the darker and/or bolder the color will be.
    • Be careful when handling the jeans, as they’ll be very hot.
    • Remember, your jeans will appear darker when wet.
    • If you’re using the stovetop method for jeans made of natural materials, it’s okay to leave them in for as little as 10 minutes.
  6. If your jeans contain fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon, or ramie, use a dye fixative immediately after dyeing and before rinsing to enhance the color and reduce bleeding. Fill a large pot, bucket, or sink with 3 gallons (11 L) of hot water, then add 1 ⁄ 2 cup (120 mL) of dye fixative per pound (500 g) of fabric. Submerge the jeans fully and stir them continuously for about 20 minutes. [18]
    • If your jeans are 100% polyester, this step isn’t necessary, but it could still enhance the color.
  7. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    After you’ve squeezed out the excess dye and/or added a dye fixative, rinse the jeans in clean water. Begin with warm water and gradually cool the water until it runs clear. The easiest way to rinse jeans is by running them under the tap in a bathtub or large sink. [19]
  8. In most cases, it’s okay to wash jeans in the washing machine, but double-check their care tag to see if they need to be hand-washed. Then, wash the jeans as you normally would, using warm water. Don’t put them in the dryer, however, as this could damage them. Instead hang them up or lay them flat to dry. [20]
    • Make sure to wash the jeans by themselves so the dye doesn’t transfer to your other clothes.
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Section 3 of 4:

How to Dye Jeans in a Washing Machine

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  1. Set the washing machine to the hottest water cycle available. A top-loading washer will work best. Turn the machine on and allow it to fill up. You don't have to wait for it to finish filling before moving on to the next step. If you’re using a front-loading washer, don’t let it fill with water yet. [21]
    • This method is not recommended if you are using a public laundry room. The residue might ruin the next person's laundry.
  2. For jeans weighing 1 pound (453 g) or less, start with half a bottle of fabric dye , which is about 1 ⁄ 2 cup (120 mL). If you're dyeing the jeans a dark color, then use a full bottle of dye instead. If your jeans weigh more than 1 pound (453 g), double the amount of dye. [22]
    • For a front-loading machine, pour the dye into the detergent dispenser, then add 1 cup (240 mL) of water to flush it. [23]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Dye Jeans
    Read the instructions on the back of the dye first. Most brands of dye require 1 cup (273 g) of salt for every 1 pound (453 g) of fabric. Some brands, however, don't require any salt. If salt is required, agitate it and the dye with a wooden stick or run the washer for a few minutes to mix it. [24]
    • Some people like to add 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of dish soap into the dye bath as well. This helps the dye adhere more evenly.
    • For a front-loading machine, let it run for 10 minutes first, then add 1 cup (273 g) of salt dissolved in 4 cups (950 mL) of hot water into the detergent dispenser. Flush it with 4 cups (950 mL) of hot water. [25]
  4. Make sure the jeans are completely submerged in the water, then close the washer and run a normal or delicate cycle depending on the jeans’ care tag instructions. Make sure to use hot water. [26]
    • Don't change the water temperature, even if the care tag inside the jeans tells you to wash them with cold water.
    • A single wash with hot water won't ruin your jeans. It's only when you wash them every time with hot water that they start to wear down.
  5. As soon as the cycle is complete, run a second cycle. This time, use the cold water and rinse-only setting to remove the excess dye. Take the jeans out of the washing machine when this cycle finishes, then run a third cycle in the empty washing machine to get rid of dye residue. This will prevent the dye from staining your other clothes. [27]
  6. Air-drying your jeans with one of these methods is the safest way to dry them, as using the dryer could damage them. [28] If you're in a hurry, however, it’s okay to toss them into a dryer and let them dry halfway, then hang them up to finish drying.
    • If you choose to dry your jeans halfway in the dryer, it shouldn’t take more than 15-20 minutes. The exact time depends on the strength of your dryer, however.
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Section 4 of 4:

Dyeing Jeans FAQs

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  1. All-purpose dyes (like the Rit brand) can dye jeans that are made of natural materials like cotton, linen, ramie, or wool. If the jeans contain more than 35% polyester or other synthetic materials, it’s better to use a dye for synthetic fabrics , as these materials don’t absorb dye well. [29]
  2. If your jeans were originally a dark blue that have lightened over time, it’s usually pretty easy to return them to their original color. According to Guerrero, black dye often works best, as it darkens jeans but doesn’t typically dye them completely black . Another option is to use indigo dye.
  3. If your jeans are made entirely of natural materials, like 100% cotton, it’s possible to tie-dye them. Tie-dyeing works best with white or light-colored jeans. Dampen your jeans, scrunch them into a crumpled mound, then secure them with rubber bands. Then, follow your dye’s instructions to color, rinse, and dry the jeans. [30]
    • Guerrero recommends the following steps as a general guide for tie-dyeing jeans: “Crunch or bunch, twist, and secure the jeans [to] affect the pattern and design you will end up with. After your jeans are prepped, you will soak them in water following the instructions of your dye. In order to adhere the dye colors to the jeans, [wait] the proper amount of time, then rinse your jeans. Undo your rubber bands or string that you've prepped it with in order to reveal your design, following all manufacturer directions.”
  4. Dye is translucent, so the original color of the jeans will show through. White jeans can be dyed any color, but it’s more difficult to dye blue or dark jeans. For these, it’s best to choose a dark dye, like indigo or black. [31]
    • For example, let’s say you want pink jeans. White jeans can easily be dyed this color, but if you try to dye blue jeans pink, you’ll end up with purple instead.
  5. It isn’t possible to dye black jeans a lighter color using dye alone. However, it may be possible if you bleach them first or use a color remover if they’re made of natural fabrics. If the jeans are more than 35% synthetic fabric, it isn’t possible to use a color remover. [32]
    • While you’re welcome to try bleaching and dyeing your black jeans, it may be easier to buy a new pair of jeans in your desired color or dye a white pair instead.
  6. In general, washing your jeans inside out with cold water and a mild detergent helps prevent fading . Heat can make color fade faster, so if possible, skip the dryer and let your jeans air-dry instead. [33]
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can you use tie dye on jeans?
    Amy Guerrero
    Arts & Crafts Specialist
    Amy Guerrero is an Arts and Crafts Specialist and the Owner of Sunshine Craft Co., a crafting studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. Amy specializes in macrame, DIY crafting, and teaching fiber arts. She offers monthly in-person and online workshops along with having developed a range of DIY craft kits for at-home projects. Amy holds a BS in Industrial Design from Philadelphia University. She worked as a graphic designer before starting her own business. Sunshine Craft Co. is a creative hub that offers a wide range of workshops, tools, and resources for any craft project to inspire creativity and community engagement.
    Amy Guerrero
    Arts & Crafts Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Start with your prep process—you could crunch or bunch, twist, and secure the jeans, which affects the pattern and design you end up with. After your jeans are prepped, soak them in water following the instructions of your dye. Wait the proper amount of time, rinse your jeans, and undo the rubber bands or string to reveal your design. Always follow the manufacturer instructions throughout this process!
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    How do you make fabric dye more vibrant on denim?
    Amy Guerrero
    Arts & Crafts Specialist
    Amy Guerrero is an Arts and Crafts Specialist and the Owner of Sunshine Craft Co., a crafting studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. Amy specializes in macrame, DIY crafting, and teaching fiber arts. She offers monthly in-person and online workshops along with having developed a range of DIY craft kits for at-home projects. Amy holds a BS in Industrial Design from Philadelphia University. She worked as a graphic designer before starting her own business. Sunshine Craft Co. is a creative hub that offers a wide range of workshops, tools, and resources for any craft project to inspire creativity and community engagement.
    Amy Guerrero
    Arts & Crafts Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Instead of watering down your dye, make a concentrated dye solution to apply to your jeans. You can also let the jeans sit in the dye for longer in order for the fibers to have more time to bond and create more vibrant colors. Also, take a look at the manufacturer instructions and make sure that you wash your denim in cold water.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    I have a printed denim skirt and the color has faded. Will the print detail be lost if I dye it darker?
    T. Chinsen
    Top Answerer
    If there is actual fabric paint as part of the design, then that should not be affected. If it is tonal/shades of color then you may lose detail.
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      • Promptly wipe off any spilled dye with a paper towel, then clean the stain off with bleach. Rubbing alcohol or acetone may also work.
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      • Regular fabric dye should work for most jeans, but be aware that the top-stitching may not dye if it’s made from polyester. In this case, choose polyester dye.
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      • Wash your newly-dyed jeans by themselves or with similar colors for the first 2 to 3 washes.
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      Things You'll Need

      • Jeans
      • Scale
      • Fabric dye
      • 1 cup (273 g) of salt
      • 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of dish soap
      • Plastic gloves
      • Wooden stick
      • Bucket or washing machine

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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about fabric and clothing Reuse, check out our in-depth interview with Amy Guerrero .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.aconsideredlife.co.uk/2019/05/guide-to-dyeing-clothes.html
      2. ↑ https://www.cleaningiscaring.org/wpd/how-to-clean-your-jeans/
      3. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      4. ↑ https://mostlovelythings.com/how-to-dye-fabric-with-rit-dye/
      5. ↑ https://austinpublishinggroup.com/textile-engineering/fulltext/arte-v6-id1061.php
      6. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      7. ↑ https://www.livescience.com/62604-why-wet-fabric-is-darker.html
      8. ↑ https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2019/04/29/color-transfer-bleeding-crocking/
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/aAKBp5R0xNs?t=221
      1. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      2. ↑ https://www.cleaningiscaring.org/wpd/how-to-clean-your-jeans/
      3. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/laundry/how-to-wash-jeans-long-lasting
      4. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      5. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      6. ↑ https://austinpublishinggroup.com/textile-engineering/fulltext/arte-v6-id1061.php
      7. ↑ https://andthenwetried.com/2017/07/fabric-dying-stovetop-technique/
      8. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      9. ↑ https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2019/04/29/color-transfer-bleeding-crocking/
      10. ↑ https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-dye-fabric
      11. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/laundry/how-to-wash-jeans-long-lasting
      12. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-dye-textiles-in-a-front-loading-washing-machine-apartment-therapy-tutorials-218301
      13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_WCLMl_vRg&t=30s
      14. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-dye-textiles-in-a-front-loading-washing-machine-apartment-therapy-tutorials-218301
      15. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_WCLMl_vRg&t=37s
      16. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-dye-textiles-in-a-front-loading-washing-machine-apartment-therapy-tutorials-218301
      17. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-dye-textiles-in-a-front-loading-washing-machine-apartment-therapy-tutorials-218301
      18. ↑ https://www.primermagazine.com/2014/spend/back-from-the-dead-revive-your-faded-favorite-jeans-by-dyeing-them-for-less-than-5
      19. ↑ https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/laundry/how-to-wash-jeans-long-lasting
      20. ↑ https://fashinza.com/fabric/fabric-types/types-of-all-fabric-dyes-used-in-the-textile-industry/
      21. ↑ https://theartofeducation.edu/2016/06/step-step-guide-tie-dye-classroom/
      22. ↑ https://mostlovelythings.com/how-to-dye-fabric-with-rit-dye/
      23. ↑ https://mostlovelythings.com/how-to-dye-fabric-with-rit-dye/
      24. ↑ https://www.cleaningiscaring.org/wpd/how-to-clean-your-jeans/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Before dyeing your jeans, wash them and wring them out so they're damp but not dry. Then, pour the dye into a bucket of hot water, stir it with a metal stick, and check the instructions to see if you need to add salt or dish soap to the solution. Once the dye is ready, soak your jeans in it for 30 to 60 minutes, stirring the dye bath every 10 minutes. When the jeans are done soaking, rinse them out until the water runs clear. Finally, wash your jeans with a gentle detergent, and allow them to hang dry. To learn how to dye jeans in the washing machine, keep reading!

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