Fabric Dyes

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Browse through our extensive range of Fabric Dyes. Whether you are an avid crafter, DIY enthusiast or a complete beginner, we will strive to help you with whatever you're after!

At ArtStore Online, we strive to bring you the best Fabric Dye brands available and have a wide range of art & craft supplies from trusted and respected brands from around the world.

What is fabric dye?

Fabric dye is a colouring agent specifically formulated to permanently change the colour of textiles, such as fabric, yarn, or clothing. Fabric dyes are designed to penetrate the fibres of the fabric, bonding with the material at a molecular level to create long-lasting colouration. Unlike fabric paint, which sits on the surface of the fabric, fabric dye becomes an integral part of the fabric itself, resulting in vibrant and durable colouration that won't wash out or fade easily.

Fabric dyes come in various types, including:

Direct Dyes: These dyes are designed to be used with cellulose fibres such as cotton, rayon, and linen. They penetrate the fibres directly, forming strong chemical bonds for permanent colouration.

Fibre-Reactive Dyes: These dyes are suitable for use with protein-based fibres such as wool, silk, and nylon. They chemically react with the fibres to create strong and permanent colour bonds.

Acid Dyes: These dyes are used for dyeing protein-based fibres such as wool, silk, and nylon in an acidic environment. They offer vibrant and colourfast results but require the use of an acid such as vinegar or citric acid as a mordant.

Disperse Dyes: These dyes are primarily used for synthetic fibres such as polyester and acetate. They are dispersed in a carrier liquid and require high heat to bond with the fibres.

Fabric dyes come in liquid, powder, or tablet form and are typically dissolved or dispersed in water before being applied to the fabric. They can be used for a variety of dyeing techniques, including immersion dyeing, tie-dyeing, dip dyeing, and painting. Fabric dyes are widely used in textile arts, fashion design, and DIY projects to create custom-coloured fabrics and clothing.

What is the difference between fabric paint and fabric dye?

The primary difference between fabric paint and fabric dye lies in how they interact with the fabric and the type of finish they produce:

Application: Fabric paint is typically applied directly onto the surface of the fabric using a brush, sponge, or other applicator. It sits on top of the fabric fibres, creating a layer of colour that adheres to the surface. Fabric dye, on the other hand, is designed to penetrate the fabric fibres and permanently change the colour of the fabric from within.

Texture: Fabric paint often leaves a slightly raised or textured surface on the fabric, especially if multiple layers are applied. Fabric dye, on the other hand, typically results in a smooth and even colouration that becomes integrated into the fabric, maintaining its softness and drape.

Opacity: Fabric paint can be opaque or translucent, depending on the specific product and application technique used. This allows for greater control over the intensity and coverage of the colour. Fabric dye, on the other hand, tends to be more transparent, allowing the natural texture and colour variations of the fabric to show through.

Versatility: Fabric paint offers greater versatility in terms of creating detailed designs, patterns, and illustrations on fabric. It can be used for freehand painting, stencilling, block printing, and other decorative techniques. Fabric dye, while primarily used for the overall colouration of the fabric, can also be used for tie-dyeing, dip-dyeing, and other techniques that create unique patterns and effects.

Durability: Both fabric paint and fabric dye can be heat set or cured to increase their durability and wash-fastness. However, fabric dye generally offers greater longevity and resistance to fading, as the colour becomes permanently integrated into the fabric fibres.

In summary, fabric paint is applied to the surface of the fabric and creates a layer of colour that sits on top of the fibres, while fabric dye penetrates the fabric fibres to permanently change the colour from within. Each has its advantages and applications, depending on the desired effect and technique.