Are you looking for a unique tie dye project for kids? Give up the plain white T-shirt and transform a pair of shoes instead! With six easy steps and some basic materials, your toddler will soon strut with style.
Step 1: Purchase Materials
Here is a list of materials needed to tie dyeing shoes.
White canvas shoes: You can buy a pair of inexpensive white canvas shoes in stores or online (like this one on Amazon). Alternatively, the kids uptrend a pair of shoes that they already own. Thoroughly wash and dry them before starting this project.
Fabric Dyeing: Parents can buy an easy-to-use tie dye dye kit, which is usually sold in craft shops or online. You can also make your own dye for more long-lasting colors; most instructions require mixing the reactive dye to the fibers with water.
Glove
Brush
Step 2: Prepare Shoes
If you do not want dyed laces, loosen them and remove them. If not, leave them in place (although this can prevent the shoe’s tongue from being stained).
Whether you’re using a tie dye kit or making your own dye, dip the shoes in soda to better absorb the color. Sodium carbonate( sodium carbonate) can be found in crafts and online stores, and some tie dye kits also contain the powder. Follow the instructions on the package; you probably need to mix soda with warm water, and then soak the shoes for at least 10 minutes. After that, leave to dry completely.
Step 3: prepare the dye
Put on gloves so as not to stain your hands. These can be kitchen gloves, rubber gloves or gloves that come with your tie dye kit. Then it’s time to prepare the dye!
Follow the instructions that come with your tie dye kit. Very concentrated paints are likely to come in bottles for spraying. In most matter, you need to add water to activate the dyes, and then shake to mix everything. Remove the tips of the spray bottles for this project, as you need to soak brushes inside.
Step 4: Choose a design
At this point, the kids can plan their tie-dye shoes design. Do you want streaks of shadows, colorful swirls, a groovy watercolor pattern or something else? Let the imagination do the rest! Here are some inspiring photos.
Step 5: Tie-Dye your Shoes
Go to a specific work area, be it your driveway or your table covered with garbage bags. Remember to stuff the shoes with the paper towel to maintain their shape during the dyeing process.
Take any brush you want( remember that the smaller ones offer more control) and dip it into the dye. Paint the shoes according to your design. Start with lighter shades (yellow, pink, light orange, etc.), as darker colors appear on them. Clean your brush in the water between each color to avoid accidentally mixing the shades.
When creating your pattern, remember that the tie-dye works. Keep a little distance between the colors to know that the dye is moving from its original position. You do not want the shades to accidentally bleed together!
Once you’re done applying the colors, take a look at your tie dye shoes. If you are looking for a watercolor or gradient, mix the colors with a dry brush. be sure to do this before staining. Those who have difficulty mixing can try to immerse the dry brush in water.
Step 6: Let The Shoes Dry
It is important to leave the colors together. Cover your wet shoes in plastic wrap or plastic bag and let them rest for 12 to 24 hours.
Step 7: Wash Shoes Tie Dye
Wash the shoes in the washing machine( nothing else should be in the machine) or by hand with detergent. When washing your hands, continue rubbing until the drain water is clear. Let the shoes dry, put on the laces again if necessary, and you are ready to wear!
