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Stone washed denim feels soft and looks fantastic, but do you have to go to the store to buy the look? Actually, stone washing is super easy to do at home—all you need are some pumice stones and a washing machine! In this article, we'll show you step-by-step how to give the denim you already own that comfy, chic stone washed look. Go ahead and grab your jeans, because today is laundry day! [1] X Research source
Steps
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Place the clothes that you wish to alter into a washing machine. -
Add 2 or 3 pumice stones into the washing machine with the clothes. Pumice stones were used in the original technique to create the stone washed look because they are abrasive and move thorough the clothes like sandpaper and remove the dye particles from the surface of the yarn. [2] X Research source- Start by using one small pumice stone in your wash if you're concerned about overdoing it.
- If you have not achieved the desired affect on your clothes repeat the wash with 2 or more pumice stones.
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Remove the clothing and pumice stones from the washing machine once the wash cycle is complete. [3] X Research source -
Repeat this method if you have not obtained the desired results. Remember not to overdo the pumice stone method as you may destroy the fabric of the material causing it to rip easily. -
Try granulated pumice soaked in bleach if the stones alone aren't working. Bleach helps fade the denim slightly, giving it a more distressed look. [4] X Research source -
Consider using bleach alone as an alternative to pumice stones. This is known as acid washing where dry clothes are bleached then placed in a washing machine. [5] X Research source -
Put the bleached clothing in the washer and clean using soap powder. The granules of pumice are removed. -
Consider a second wash if there is any lingering bleach residue on the clothing. [6] X Research source
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The Takeaway: Making Stone Washed Denim
Place your denim garment in the washing machine and add 2 to 3 pumice stones. Start the machine and take your garment out when it’s done. If the garment isn’t stone-washed to your liking, add a few more stones and a splash of bleach into the washer.
Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat type of machine are you using with one stone?Community AnswerThe article states to use two to three stones, not one, in your regular washing machine. Be warned that your washing machine could be damaged by this process. See the warnings section in the article.
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Warnings
- Pumice stones may damage the drum of your washing machine.Thanks
- When too many pumice stones are used, the fabric is damaged especially at the waistband and hem. Rivets and metal buttons may be damaged along with the clothing's dye. Jeans can be ruined with this process.Thanks
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