Browsing Tag

dyeing playsilk

Making crowns and playsilks

Recently I resolved to spend less. Less on food. Less on books. And less on craft supplies. These are probably my main spending vices. But also things I really enjoy.

My wonderful friend suggested that I still allow myself to buy craft supplies but use them to create handmade gifts. That way I can still enjoy making and creating. And then I can give handmade.

I think this means I get to have my cake and eat it too!

So I’ve been knitting up gorgeous crowns in lovely vibrant 16 ply wool using this pattern. And dyeing my own playsilks ~ again in bright brilliant colours ~ using acid dye.

I’m pretty pleased with the results and hope the recipients are enjoying them! And who knows, maybe I’ll make enough to sell at the markets!

Happy days,
Kelly

November 24, 2014 by

A rainbow of playsilks {a tutorial}

We were excited to receive a package of blank playsilk from Dharma Trading last week. Ready and calling out for colour… a rainbow of colour! Or so I like to imagine 😉
I used a medium saucepan just over half full with water. Then I added 1/3 of a teaspoon of Wilton’s Icing Colour and a good lug of vinegar. Stir well and heat until simmering.
(some have a solid colour and some are dappled)
While the dye was heating up I opened up a silk and soaked it through with water before adding it to the pot. Then I let the silk soak up the dye for a good 20 minutes or so, stirring every so often. 
(excuse the mess in the background, it was cleaning day!)
Turn off the heat and let the silk sit in the dye until cool. Then rinse until the water runs clear.
(peek-a-boo)
Wash the silk on a gentle cycle before drying (I used a clothes dryer because I was impatient to see the results). And ta da…
(the orange is a little dappled because I used red and yellow to dye it)
Warmly, Kelly
March 26, 2012 by