PO Box 14 • Somerset, MA 02726
orders 1-800-2-BUY-DYE
technical support 508-676-3838
fax 508-676-3980
e-mail • promail@prochemical.com
www.prochemical.com
Staining Silk Flowers and Feathers
Please read directions carefully before starting.
Dyeing Silk Flowers and Feathers presents a challenge because neither can be boiled, yet we want to use dyes because of their clear, translucent color. We have solved this problem by developing a slightly un-orthodox procedure that does work well at room temperature.
Although Silk Flowers and Feathers appear to have nothing in common, both are composed of protein which colors readily with the PRO WashFast Acid Dyes. The secret is the medium in which the dyes are dissolved. We have used both 70% rubbing alcohol (Isopropyl) and denatured [grain] alcohol. Both work equally well. Denatured alcohol might be slightly less expensive if you are planning to do a large amount of dyeing. Wet fastness is good. It is important to sample before working on large projects. For additional information visit our web site at www.prochemical.com.
Supplies
PRO WashFast Acid Dyes
Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl) OR Denatured (grain) Alcohol
Procedure
1. Make a stock solution by dissolving 1 tsp (2.5 gm) of the dye in one or two tsp (5
or 10 ml) of boiling water. Add more hot water to make 1/2 cup (125 ml). Allow to cool to
room temperature; then add alcohol to make 1 cup (250 ml) of dye solution. Store stock
solutions in tightly capped glass bottles.
2. Use stock solution full strength or dilute with a mixture made of equal parts of water and alcohol for lighter colors. It is better to make the color solution a little lighter than the desired color, as intensity should be built up by successive dips with intermediate drying. Colors will normally look darker when wet. Colors that are too dark can not be lightened. There is no need for rinsing or heat setting. Simply allow the flowers/feathers to air dry.
VARIATIONS: Color variations can be obtained by dipping a portion of the flower or feather into one color solution and another section into another color. All colors are inter-mixable. Color solutions may also be applied by brush for better control of colored areas.
NOTE OF CAUTION: While the dyes are non-toxic, the alcohols are both flammable and unsafe to breathe over an extended period of time. Use in an area with GOOD VENTILATION and do not smoke or eat in the vicinity of the dye area.
Rubber gloves and goggles are recommended to avoid eye injury and skin contact.
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