Tips N' Tricks #1

Marion's Method for Warp Painting

This dye method is so simple and so much fun I just know you will hurry on home and gather the things together so you will have a beautiful dyed warp before your supper is cooked.

What you will need:

• Measured warp
• Small jars or any small containers for dye.
• Paint brush
• Plain salt
• Sheet of plastic
• Bowl (large enough to hold warp)
• White vinegar
• Vegetable steamer
• Several colors of dye (I use Cushing) but any kind is fine.
• Boiling water

Prepare the warp before dyeing. Fill a bowl with warm water and 1/4 cup of plain salt. Place warp in this solution until it is thoroughly wet. Squeeze out the water so the warp is not drippy. Cover a flat surface with the plastic sheeting. Lay the warp out spreading it so it is not all bunched up in a snake like fashion.

Depending on how many colors you are going to use is how many small containers you will need. I use baby food jars and use them over and over again. Put a small amount of dye in each container and pour boiling water and stir.

Now is when you get really "Artsy".. Begin painting with the first color here and there along the warp. Rinse your brush and go to the next color. Continue until you have the warp as colorful as you wish.

Next thing you do is fold the plastic over the warp from both sides, then from the end start rolling like a "jelly roll". You can put rubber bands on the ends to hold it but usually the roll will stay put.

Now is the time to steam your dyed warp. Let it steam for about 20 minutes and cool down so you can handle it without scorching your fingers.

Now in the bowl prepare a new rinse of 1/4 cup of white vinegar and water (enough to cover the warp). Unroll the plastic and place in vinegar rinse. Then rinse one more time in clear water.

Hang out to dry.. and you are ready to dress your loom. Hope you will give this a try. It is really rewarding.

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