You think after the last fiasco (read: Carrie Kelley lens tinting) I would stop that nonsense. Apparently I’m a glutton for punishment and feel a NEED to dye ridiculous things! sigh Anyway…

This time, I’m dying a pair of coveralls. Specifically, a new set of Kaylee coveralls. Let’s get to it…

The coveralls are “Big Bill” brand and are the “lightweight work coveralls” in light green. They’re 65% polyester and 35% cotton. They actually work really well as a base for Kaylee’s coveralls with some mods (more on that later).

The coveralls before:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attempt #1 – iDye Poly (by Jacquard)

This is a new product for me – I’ve never used the iDye line and I figured why not give it a go. Here are the instructions:

Not all synthetic fibers are created equal. Results will vary depending on type of fabric. Polyester is hard to dye and requires very high water temperature to achieve good color. Therefore we only recommend dyeing polyester with the stovetop method. Note: Instructions below are for achieving the most vibrant color. For lighter shades, dissolve dye packet in small container with hot water. Add dissolved dye to the dyebath in the appropriate amount to achieve desired shade. Keep in mind that color will deepen the longer the fabric is in the dyebath.

Stove top method for polyester and nylon blends with natural fibers:
1. Choose iDye Poly color closest to the iDye for natural fabrics color you are dyeing and add both packets to dye bath.
2. Fill a stainless steel or enamel pot with just enough water for the fabric to move freely. Turn on to high heat.
3. Add iDye Poly, iDye Color Intensifier and iDye for natural fabrics to the water. Stir until dissolved.
4. Add garments/fabric and bring to a rolling boil.
5. Add 1 cup/237 ml. of non-iodized salt for cotton, linen and rayon or ¹/³ cup/78 ml. of white vinegar for silk. Avoid
pouring directly onto fabric.
6. Maintain a rolling boil and stir frequently for ½ to 1 hour. For uniform color, use constant agitation.
7. Gradually cool the fabric and wash with a mild detergent and dry.

Well I didn’t do the “similar” color for the cotton content, because frankly if the cotton doesn’t dye that’s fine. Anyway, here is what my coveralls looked like after an hour of dyeing, washing, and drying:

Results:

Truth be told, the pics are showing it differently than what my eyes are seeing. They look more bluish to the eye (like the flash pic) than the no-flash pic.There really isn’t any difference. I know some of the dye took to the white part because they’re green-ish, but this is being chalked up as a major fail. I held up a scrap piece from the sleeves I removed before dyeing, yeah…no change. This was a waste of money.

Next Steps:

I’ve seen a good review using Dylon Olive green and a pair of cotton/poly grey trousers. I may have to give that one a go. Below is a picture from that review. Looks promising? Fingers crossed.