Test 1 - Powdered Drink Mix

Samples:

Method #6—scoured fabric soaked in a solution of powdered drink mix

Method #7—non-scoured fabric soaked in a solution of powdered drink mix

Powdered drink mix dyeing is a common at-home method, used for cellulose embroidery fabrics—even though this method is only recommended for wools and silks, which are protein fibers. It is not possible to set powdered drink mixes, or food coloring, on cellulose. Only a surface coloring takes place and no true dye bond is formed.

As you can see why from the before and after pictures (Photo 3), in less than a year’s worth of normal, household light exposure, the colors have been severely compromised.

Scouring the fabric first actually exposed it to more light, and increased the color destruction process. This method of fabric dyeing might be fun to do at home, for a short-lived project such as a birthday card, an ornament, or some other project that might be displayed only a few hours a year, or under very dim lighting conditions. Certainly, this would not be an appropriate method to dye a piece for continuous display or for an heirloom treasure.