Is it possible to re-dye a shirt?

[subject101]

Hope this question is not too silly

I have a khaki shirt that I want to dye to dark brown. Fabric is quite thick, 60% cotton, 40% polyester.

Is it possible to re-dye? How?

 

[John in Covina]

The thing is the cotton will pick up the dye but the polyester probably won't. However it may make for a pretty good looking shirt anyway, depending on how great a color change. Also you can really only go from light to darker colors in most instances.

In the US if you go to a supermarket, Target, Walmart or a fabric / craft store then ask for RIT dye. Read the directions on the package.

Good luck.

If hippies can tie-dye shirts you can too.

 

[subject101]

Thanks for the answer John,

I'm concerned that the polyester and stitches don't pick up the dye. I do know RIT dye. I have used it before to re-dye black clothes but fabric was 100% cotton.

from Rit web page; http://www.ritdye.com/dyeing-techniques/tips-success

Choose Your Fabric

Rit works best on many natural, washable fabrics such as ...

* 100% cotton, linen, silk, wool, ramie
* Synthetics such as rayon, nylon and acetate
* Fiber blends with at least 60% cotton or other dyeable fiber
(Blends will tint evenly but will not achieve full color)

... but there are fabrics that will not accept dye such as ...

* Fabrics with 50% or more polyester content
* 100% acrylic, fiberglass, or metallic fibers
* Fabrics with rubber backing (bath mats or throw rugs)
* Fabrics with special finishes such as water repellents
* Fabrics with bleach damage or extensive staining
* Fabrics washable only in cold water or labeled "dry clean only"

If you are in doubt as to whether your fabric will accept dye, test a swatch.

60% cotton, 40% polyester is in the not accepting zone