Not So Lazy Days: Tie dyed and blue all over
Arts & Crafts
In preparation for Independence Day events, I thought the kids would like to make patriotic blue tie dye shirts to wear Monday.
In our backyard, the boys rubber banded their white t-shirts as I got the dye bath ready. When their shirts were ready, I placed them in the dye, knowing the boys would turn into Smurfs if I let them near the dye.
Stirring occassionally, I let the shirts sit for 30-40 minutes, then briefly put them in a bath of cold water to rinse them. Instead of using gloves, as the dye directions recommend, I reused plastic shopping bags.
After letting them sit in the shade for about an hour to dry a little, I carefully removed the rubber bands and hung the shirts on a shaded line outside to continue drying.
The directions on the dye box actually say to wash in warm water before drying, but I think waiting to wash for about 24 hours helps the color set in better.
After I placed the shirts on the clothesline, the boys saw their completed art for the first time and were amazed by their creations.
Costs for this project were: t-shirts at $2.50 each (4 for $10 deal), rubber bands at $1.99, and powder dye at $2.99. I already had salt for the dye bath on hand.
What did you do this week? We...
About the Not So Lazy Days series
I've challenged myself to find a new activity to do five days a week every week of the kids' summer vacation. Activities will fall under one of three categories: Arts & Crafts, Sports & Games or Field Trips. Follow me on Twitter @readallaboutsam for immediate updates on posts!