Dyeing

**g koch** · 6th May 04, 11:41 AM

Hello to all. New to this board.

My question is how effectively would a box of black or brown RIT dye darken a wool kilt when used in cold water?

Or is there some other product that would work better?

I never wear my Edinburgh or weathered Ulster so I'm willing to sacrifice them if there's a chance they'll hold the darker color.

Thanks, Greg

**GMan** · 6th May 04, 11:45 AM

Hell-o Greg,

Welcome to the forum!

As far as dyeing is concerned I personally am rather leary using dyes in general. Maybe some of the other guys can help.

Tell us about yourself.

Glen

**bubba** · 6th May 04, 01:55 PM

As far as I've seen cold water dying isn't very good and woll doesn't handle the hot water very well

Chris@southerncelt.com · 6th May 04, 08:24 PM

First of all. You have to be extremely careful when dyeing wool, as it will shrink in the water and too much agitation will cause it to felt (i.e. turn into felt). If the kilt has a lining, you risk the wool shrinking as well as the hair canvas in the lining, while the twill cotton lining remains the same size. So you can see this is wrought with problems.

If you must dye your wool, you would want to do it on the gentle cycle with a cup of vinegar. The acid in the vinegar helps the dye attach to the wool. You will also need to dry the wool flat. No matter what, don't use a dryer.

**bear** · 6th May 04, 08:59 PM

My advice is to sell the kilts you no longer want and buy one of a colour you like.
Check out my used kilts page if you'd like a place to advertise them.
http://bearkilts.com/usedkilts.html