SUPPLIES & TOOLS:
• Rit All-Purpose Liquid Dye: Scarlet or your favourite colour(s)
• Cotton Rope
• Dowel Rod
• Container for Dyeing
• Measuring Cup
DIRECTIONS:
• Salt
• Liquid Dish Detergent
• Plastic Table Cover
• Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative (recommended)
1. Cover work area with plastic table cover and have paper towels handy to protect against any possible spills. Gather supplies.
2. To create the macramé, measure out cotton rope to desired length and cut.
3. Secure the rope to a dowel rod using a larks head knot.
4. Once rope is secured to the dowel rod, it’s time to create the dyebath.
5. Wearing rubber gloves, fill a large container or stainless-steel sink with 11.4 litres (3 gallons) of very hot water. The water should ideally be 60ºC (140ºF). If tap water is not hot enough, heat water on the stove and add to the dyebath. Pour 1/2 bottle of Scarlet dye into the dyebath.
6. To enhance the colour, add one cup of salt. Add 1 teaspoon of liquid dish detergent to help promote level dyeing. Stir well.
7. Test colour by dipping a paper towel into the dyebath. If colour is too light, add more dye. If colour is too dark, add more water.
8. Holding the macramé by the dowel rod, dip the rope portion into the dyebath. We dipped the featured macramé at a diagonal angle. Let the rope sit in the dyebath for several minutes or until desired colour is achieved.
9. To create the wave effect, use a paint brush to add more dye and to clean up the lines.
10. Recommended: Use Rit ColorStay Fixative immediately after dyeing to enhance colour, increase colour retention and prevent dye from bleeding. Follow package instructions.
An old school craft made popular in the ’70s, macramé is a beautiful art form that is having a major comeback. Create this easy dip-dyed piece with a simple knot anyone can do. Choose a colour that compliments your living space and get started!
TIME: Under 1 Hour
DIFFICULTY: Beginner
11. Hang your macramé in a safe place to dry. If it’s still dripping just take a paper towel and blot it to remove excess dye.
12. Dry for several hours. Hang and enjoy!