Fabric Dyeing 101: Create Beautiful Cotton Fabrics with MX Dyes

Fabric Dyeing 101

Create Beautiful Cotton Fabrics with MX Dyes

by Melissa J. Will

Want to create your own colorful cotton fabrics for quilting, sewing, or start a small hand-dyed fabric business? In this ebook, I’ll show you exactly how I dye cotton fabric at home using MX dyes (the same ones used for tie-dyeing) and everyday supplies.

When I first learned to dye fabric, the best resource available was an overly complicated book. So, I started experimenting, gradually coming up with my own preferred way to get beautiful, consistent results that I could easily recreate.

I dyed so much fabric that I eventually opened an online shop, sold at craft fairs, wholesaled to quilt shops, and began teaching fabric dyeing to others.

This guide shares everything I’ve learned along the way, providing clear steps, practical tips, and realistic advice to make gorgeous fabrics.

Here’s what I’ll show you how to do:

• Set up a safe and functional dyeing space at home using common household supplies.
• Dye both mottled and solid fabrics in a full range of colors—including rainbow colors, subtle blends, skin tones, and earthy neutrals.
• Mix your own colors and adapt dye recipes.
• Use up leftover dyes with fun methods like sky painting.
• Troubleshoot common problems (and avoid them in the first place).
• Track your fabrics so you can replicate favorite results.

Why I like this method:

• It’s beginner-friendly, with clear, step-by-step instructions.
• It uses minimal dye powder, so it’s cost-effective and less wasteful.
• You can create whatever size pieces you like, from a fraction of a yard to a yard or two.
• No need for extras like salt or urea.

This isn’t a chemistry lesson or a deep dive into art theory—it’s a practical guide for hobbyists to create a beautiful collection of custom-dyed fabrics—right at home, using a simple starter kit and budget-friendly supplies.

Ebook Format

• 116 pages
• Printable 8.5 x 11 format
• PDF file format