Dying Muslin Question

[darkdragon]

Alright, so over the weekend i purchased some blank "white" muslin to use as a backdrop. I am keeping one portion white for high-key. The other portion I want to dye a blueish color.

I purchased the dye, but the question I have is about how to get a pattern.

When I look at the backdrops online, they are not solid blue (or whatever color). They always have a mottled (?) look to them. Sorta like a tye-dye look but not as "patterned".

I have no idea if I'm even stating this clearly. :scratch

The question is this: Has anyone here dyed thier own muslin to look similar to the style they have available premade? What is the technique for not getting a solid color?

[Angelo]

Alright, so over the weekend i purchased some blank "white" muslin to use as a backdrop. I am keeping one portion white for high-key. The other portion I want to dye a blueish color.

I purchased the dye, but the question I have is about how to get a pattern.

When I look at the backdrops online, they are not solid blue (or whatever color). They always have a mottled (?) look to them. Sorta like a tye-dye look but not as "patterned".

I have no idea if I'm even stating this clearly. :scratch

The question is this: Has anyone here dyed thier own muslin to look similar to the style they have available premade? What is the technique for not getting a solid color?


The way to accomplish this is to use a large tub...

mix up your dye in the tub...

form your backdrop into a long arm, twisting it (think of twisting a wet towel) and tying a few knots in it.

Place the muslin in the tub following all other dying instructions. the bunched up and knotted fabric will "accept" the dye at varying degrees creating a mottled appearance.

I highly recommend you try this on a cheap white sheet or old t-shirts first to master the technique.

Oh, be sure your muslin is 100% natural fiber. polys will not accept dye.

also, google tie-dye for more examples and instructions.

[davidweaver]

Also wash the muslin and dry with fabric softener sheet. It helps with dye take up as I've read.