Follow these easy instructions to use all-purpose tint and dye to refresh faded black tops and jeans.

Black garments are particularly susceptible to fading. They should always be turned inside out and washed in cold water – but still it is inevitable that they will fade over time.

Many factors will affect the speed at which black garments fade. For example, the temperature of the water when the fabric was originally dyed plays a big part. Black dye reacts best in a bath wash at very high temperature. The fabric also needs to sit in that wash for a reasonable amount of time

Looking at this from the manufacturer’s view point, the hotter the water, the more time the fabric sits, the more expensive it is to process the garment. Therefore, it stands to reason that inexpensive garments will sit in the dye bath for a shorter period of time. The manufacturer cuts corners – the garment looks good in the store, holds up for a couple of washings then voila – you’ve got a faded garment.

Regardless of price, it’s irritating when a cotton top or pair of jeans fades after a couple of washes.

The All-Purpose Dye method discussed in this article does not work on polyester. This is good news if the garment has some cool decorative topstitching – many cotton garments are sewn using polyester thread. If the topstitching was done with polyester thread, the thread will not pick up any of the dye.

Let’s get started by purchasing supplies and preparing the dyebath:

Supplies:

• 2 boxes of an all-purpose black tint and dye such as Rit.
• Salt (optional)
• Wooden dowel to be used for hand agitation.

Prepare the Dyebath:

Follow the manufacturer’s directions and advice exactly. For example, if using Rit brand make sure to add a cup of salt. The salt acts as a reactor; it helps the dye do a better job.

Next, Test the Fabric:

Prior to placing the garment in the dyebath, dunk a cotton swab into the dyebath and carefully rub it on any decorative topstitching (in an inconspicuous place) to see if the thread is colorfast. After 30 minutes, rinse the spot and check your results.

If the thread has changed colors, decide what to do. This is purely a matter of personal choice. Would one rather have a fresh-looking pair of black jeans without decorative stitching or a faded pair with?

This is also a good idea for any garment, just to make sure the cloth turns the right color. Again swab some dye onto a part of the garment that is inconspicuous and check the results after 30 minutes. Not happy – go no further.

To Use or Not Use the Washing Machine:

The dye works best using a washing machine’s normal agitation action. Worried that your washing machine tub will be permanently dyed black? The only way this will be a problem is if your tub is in poor shape, giving the dye a surface to grab onto. If this is a concern, use a container like an old bucket or pan instead and be prepared to do a lot of stirring with the wooden dowel.

If using a washing machine, it’s a good idea to pause the cycle just prior to the rinse to make sure the clothing has been in the dyebath for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally with the wooden dowel.

Whatever method used, follow the manufacturer’s directions exactly.

Finishing Up:

Wash the garment until the rinse water is colorless. Machine or air dry the garment and make sure you immediately follow the manufacture’s instructions for cleaning the inside of the washing machine or container.

Note: These instructions can also be used for blue jeans – just purchase dark blue dye instead of black.