One container for every color of dye Paintbrushes Hot water Polyurethane spray (optional)
Wood bought from craft supply stores (blocks or beads, for example) is ready to go. If you haven’t yet purchased wood and are looking to do so from a home improvement store, ask if they’ll sand it for you.
If you’re using the immersion method, you’ll need the same amount of dye with 2 ‘’quarts’’ of water (depending on the size of your product). There are many different types of wood dyes out there, and some are just wood stains. Rit dye, like the kind you’d buy for fabric, makes a great, easy-to-use, cheap dye for woods that’s widely available in craft supply stores.
This won’t give you the exact final hue, but it’ll be close. It’ll also show you how the dye spreads and how you have to apply the dye to get the look you want.
Brush-on method. Dip a foam or bristle brush or old cloth in the dye and spread it evenly over your wood surface. If dye drops splash onto your wood, you can get rid of them by sanding the wood immediately. Let it dry and reapply as necessary. Immersion method. Place the wood gently into the prepared dye. Leave in for as long as it takes to achieve the desired color (likely 10-20 minutes. Keep in mind that the colors dry much lighter than they appear when wet. Weather-beaten look. Chose two dye colors to apply one after the other. Start with the lighter shade and let dry. Then apply the darker shade and let dry. Once it is dry, lightly sand the entire piece, exposing the lighter shade underneath. Repeat applications as necessary. Rub with sandpaper or steel wool to create shaded areas when finished.
Keep in mind that this method is not safe to use with baby’s toys or other objects that may get placed in the mouth.
Pieces of wood Liquid watercolors Bowls, cups, or ice tray Wax paper Paintbrushes (optional)
The beauty of liquid watercolor is that it is good to go. No mixing or heating up necessary. When you pour it in, that’s all you need to do. It lasts much longer than food coloring and is cheaper, too.
It’s not a bad idea to dip in one side and set the wood down to dry on a side that isn’t dyed yet. Then you know whichever side it lays on won’t get tarnished or stick to the surface when laid down. If the color is too light, dip it in for a few seconds once more, applying another coat.
Keep this in mind for your objects, too. If they get exposed to water, the dye could start coming off – at least eventually. It’s important they stay dry (out of water and out of mouths).
You’ll probably want to put on an old t-shirt and some plastic or rubber gloves, too.
Cherry drink powder will come out red, grape will come out purple, etc. If you want a darker, deeper shade, just add less water. You can also combine colors (red and yellow make orange, for example) if the color you want is unavailable in flavor form. The best perk of using drink powder as your dye? It smells delicious.
You’ll probably need a couple of layers, so be patient. Be sure to coat the entirety of the wood before you move onto coating it a second time to keep the color even.
Check the color. When the wood dries completely, see if the color is dark enough for your liking. If it isn’t dark enough, dye the wood again.
One container for each dye Warm or hot water Plastic bags (if immersing)
Mix it up well – food coloring has a tendency to take a while to dissolve if it isn’t given a push in the right direction. The darker (and bigger) the wood and the more water you have, the more dye you will need. Be prepared to clean out your stock in your kitchen for the craft.
You can also use a foam brush to apply the dye. This makes it easier to control and is better for smaller objects that have nooks and crannies. It does take a bit more patience, however.
If you’re using the brush-on method, you’ll probably need at least 3 or 4 coats to get a significant color. Apply the first coat around the entire object before you move onto the 2nd to ensure an even look. Keep in mind that the color will lighten as it dries.
If you’re happy with the color, considering sealing it in by spraying the surface with a polyurethane spray. You can also take a brush to spread it on. This adds a varnish or shine to the object in addition to providing a seal against general wear and tear.
Dyeing a dining room table that seats 14? You may need more than just a pot.
Before you go to dip your rag or paintbrush in the coffee, you may want to put on rubber or plastic gloves to keep coffee stains off your hands.
Don’t worry about the grounds; press them in if you can but just keep moving back and forth. Leave the grounds in place for darker dyeing.
Remember to let it dry before you apply another layer. It will be slightly darker when wet. If you like the current shade, consider sealing it with polyurethane spray or a wood varnish. This will help the color last longer, give it a sheen, and protect it against the elements.
