howtodye

***Do not let the paper stand in water too long. After all, we are dealing with paper!
***Experiment for color density and the length of time you can leave the paper
in water (& dye water).
***When squeezing water out, too much pressure will make a pulp ball and it will be
impossible to flatten the paper.
***Please do one piece at a time if you don't want to have a big blob on hand.

Method #1

I like to crumble the paper first. It gives a very nice texture.

Cut Washi paper in half - a whole piece is too hard to handle.

Prepare cloth dye according to directions.

Immerse Washi paper in water and let it wet thoroughly. Gently squeeze out excess water - this step will help the paper dye evenly.

Immerse wet Washi paper in prepared dye water (you may wear rubber gloves).

Gently turn over and let the color soak in evenly.

Squeeze colored water out using gloved hands very gently.

Rinse with clean water a few times until water runs clean.

Flatten carefully and let it dry.

Method #2

This method is a lot easier than method 1 when you need smaller colored pieces.

1. Cut out slightly larger then actual size that you need for the clothes. Like cotton , it          will shrink some when it gets wet.
2. Spray mist with water sprayer, make damp Washi paper. It will help to even coloring.
3. Brushing on water color on damp paper. Let it dry. If you desire a darker color, repeat
     step 2 and 3.

For pattern:
1. Go through step 1,2,3. Use lighter water color for base color.
2.   Use water color and paint on whatever subjects you like.

***After a few tries, you will find how easy it is to get the right color for your project.

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