If you don’t prepare your yarn just right,
It won’t take up the dye, it’ll be quite the sight!
Solid colors, especially dark and deep,
Need proper prep before you leap!
For vibrant colors that shine and gleam,
Follow these steps to achieve your dream:
Step 1: Quite a Twisted Tale
Some fibers are dense, some twisted, some fine,
The fibre itself affects how it will shine.
So choose with care, and give it a glance,
For some fibres need just a little more chance!
Step 2: Clean Your Fibre
If there’s oil in the fibre, the dye can’t get through,
So clean it up nice, and here’s what to do:
In warm water with wool wash, soak it with care,
Gently press it, don’t agitate, beware!
For plant-based fibres, soda ash is key,
Soak for 30 minutes, and you’ll soon see.
Step 3: Soak the Fibre
Soaking’s important, let the warm water work.
For open light airy fibres, it’s quite the perk.
At least 30 minutes to start things right,
But if the fibres are twisted and dense
— Soak for 24 hours throughout the night!
Let the fibre take up the water or press it down,
It’s a key to avoiding a patchy frown.
For darker hues that are bold and true,
This 24-hour soak’s just for you!
Step 4: A Good Time to Add Vinegar or Not
Not for solid dyeing, but when you’re feeling wild,
A splash of vinegar might make it more styled.
But for an even, solid hue,
Keep the vinegar away—it’s just not for you!
Step 5: Don't Get it in a Knot!
Use a string or a zip tie to keep it neat,
A skein that’s tangled is no easy feat!
Tie it off loosely, let it sway,
And handle with care through your dyeing day.
Step 6: Ready Your Space for Dyeing with Grace
Get your workspace ready, gather your tools,
Weigh your dye, gloves, and all the rules.
With everything set, you’ll have quite the time,
As you dip and dye and watch colours climb!
And there you have it, your steps all laid out,
With vibrant hues, there’s not a doubt.
So happy dyeing, enjoy the fun,
And soon you’ll see it's a second to none!
Written by Muffs Merino with the help of AI.