Sewing Q&AMarla Stefanelli
How do I set the color in new fabric so it won't keep fading?
Virginia W.,
There can be a variety of reasons that your fabric fades: the fabric may not be colorfast to begin with, a high chlorine content in the water, the type of detergent used, sunlight and friction. Dyes in certain fabrics are also less stable. For example, a decorator fabric may contain a dye that's more stable in sunlight but releases easily in water. If you use a decorator fabric for a different purpose than the manufacturer intended, such as in a garment, the fabric may fade more readily from the frequent washings. Test fabric samples to determine the best care method for these projects.
Some fabrics have an excess amount of dye from the dyeing process. Rinse the fabric in cool water until the water runs clear, especially if you're concerned about bleeding onto other fabrics. If the water never seems to run clear, the color isn't fast and there isn't any way to fix it. You can minimize the color loss by adding salt or vinegar to the water every time the article is laundered, but it will continue to fade.
Follow these helpful hints to avoid unnecessary fading.
- Wash the fabric or completed project in water between 80 and 85 degrees. Water that's too hot can cause the dye to be released.
- If you can smell chlohne in your water, then it has too much and you'll need to neutralize it. Look for products with sodium bisulfite or sodium thiosulfate in them (both are also known as antichlor). These can be found at restaurant supply companies, pet stores (for fish tanks), or at swimming pool and spa suppliers. Follow the product instructions for the amount to add to the water during the wash and rinse cycles.
- Certain agents in detergent can release the fabtic dye. Avoid detergents with bleach and "whiteners" and don't use more detergent than called for.
- Look at the ingredients when choosing detergents--the milder products tend to have fewer ingredients. Look for detergents or soaps that are non-ionic or anionic. These are more effective at lower water temperatures.
- Use moderate heat when drying. Hot dryer temperatures can damage some dyes and cause color variations.
- Some dyes are applied to the fabric surface, and can rub off with friction. Either hand wash or turn the garment wrong side out when laundering to avoid rubbing on other items.
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