There are many types of dyes on the market. When choosing which dye to buy, read the instructions and take note of what method is needed to set the dye (some need a microwave, some need a dryer, etc.). Make sure that the method of that specific dye is practical to implement with the item that you are dying.

To personalize, write your initial or name on your item with a thick layer of hot glue before the misting step. Write it slightly bolder and wider than you actually want, because some dye may seep a little under the sides of the glue. Once the glue has fully dried, try any of the techniques below. Before the final step of setting the dye, gently peel the glue off and outline the initial or name with a matching permanent marker. Continue with the instructions on how to set the dye.

Nifty Knapsack

School is hopefully around the corner and I think that this year even the kids are looking forward to getting back into the classroom! This knock-your-socks-off bubble snake activity will be one summer memory that will be remembered as they proudly wear their knapsacks all year long. We personalized the knapsack; you can try it on any fabric that has a tight weave.

You Will Need

• white knapsack
• disposable bowls
• bubble solution
• powdered dye
• spray bottle
• a few empty water or soda bottles
• scissors
• a few old thick socks

Instructions

1. Fill disposable bowls with bubble solutions and a bit of extra dish soap.

2. Add a different colored powdered dye to each bowl and mix gently.

3. Cut the bottom inch off of a few water or soda bottles.

4. Take your socks and slip them onto the cut ends of the bottles.

5. Dampen knapsack with the mist of a spray bottle.

6. Dip one of the bottles into a bubble solution bowl.

7. With bottle positioned over the knapsack, blow into the bottle from the neck.

8. A snake will form and you can shift it in any direction as you keep blowing.

9. Repeat with that color or begin with another color.

10. Repeat with as many colors as desired.

11. Don’t forget to dye the sides, back, and straps.

12. Follow package instructions on how to set the dye.

Cool Cap

Splatter art always has a very cheerful look and using this bubble tie-dye technique will leave you with cheerful kids and cheerful caps.

You Will Need

• white baseball cap
• 4-oz bottles of bubbles with wands
• powdered dye
• spray bottle

Instructions

1. Remove bubble wands from bubble bottles, and add a different color of the powdered dye to each bottle.

2. Seal and shake well.

3. Dampen cap with the mist of a spray bottle.

4. Dip a wand into a bubble bottle and, with the wand positioned close to the cap, blow. It leaves a splattered effect.

5. Repeat with that color or begin with another color.

6. Repeat with as many colors as desired.

7. Follow package instructions on how to set the dye.

(Originally featured in Family First, Issue 703)