Alternatively, keep the laces in if you want them to be part of your tie-dye effect!
If you aren’t using a tie-dye kit, you can purchase soda ash separately at most craft supply stores. [3] X Research source
You do not have to rinse the shoes after you take them out of the soda ash mixture.
For example, apply 3-5 colors in 1–3 in (2. 5–7. 6 cm) sections for a striped effect. Apply 2-4 colors in a swirl pattern for a 70s-inspired shoe.
Alternatively, purchase dye mix individually and mix the color with water following the specific instructions of your dye. Each dye type is different, but in general, you can mix the dye with several cups of water to create your coloring. Do this for each individual dye color.
Typically, tie-dye kits come with a pair of gloves. You can also use plastic medical or kitchen gloves.
For example, yellow often looks better blended with blue than it does purple. Yellow and blue blend to create green, while yellow and purple can look brown and muddy.
Using a small brush gives you greater control of the dye, so you can easily create a cool tie-dye effect. Doing this prevents the colors from bleeding together. Dark colors may overpower lighter colors if you apply them first. For instance, if you start with a dark blue and then try to color in a section yellow, the yellow may appear less visible because of the intensity of the dark shade.
For instance, fill in the toe of both shoes before you move onto the sides.
If you don’t rinse off your brush, you may contaminate the dye with the previous color.
The amount can vary based on your intended look.
If you are satisfied with the look of your shoes prior to blending, skip over this.
With either option, make sure the shoes are completely covered.
If washing by hand, use a washcloth to scrub the outside of your shoes and rinse them until the water is clear. If using the washing machine, remove your shoes from the washer after the wash cycle is complete.
For instance put your shoes on your deck or front porch. If you have slip-on canvas shoes, you can wear them after they dry.
If you place your shoelaces on while the shoes are still wet, they may look slightly tinted in color later on.
