Ice Tie-Dye - Just for Kids

Ever heard the phrase “good clean fun"? It's summertime and there are lots of fun things you can do outdoors that aren't always neat and tidy.

Here's a fun summer activity that isn't necessarily clean! You're going to love it! Seriously, creating your own custom tie-dye shirt is a lot of fun! There are so many different color combinations to choose from and all kinds of ways to fold a shirt to create unique patterns.

Here are instructions on how to create your specialized shirt. Before you begin, be sure to check with a grown-up! 

 

Supply List: 

  • A grown-up's permission
  • A white cotton t-shirt
  • Dye powders (check your local craft store)
  • A big plastic bin
  • A cooling rack
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Ask a grown-up before you begin! 
  2. Wash the shirt without using fabric softener and leave it damp. Do not dry the shirt. 
  3. Set up the cooling rack inside the plastic bin. 
  4. Crumple the damp shirt and place it on the cooling rack.
  5. Cover the shirt with ice.
  6. Sprinkle dye powder over the ice.
  7. Let sit for 24 to 48 hours.
  8. Rinse the shirt until water runs clear.
  9. Wash the shirt by itself to remove any left over dye.
  10. Dry as usual and enjoy your ice tie-dyed shirt!

Fun tip:

Did you know you can tie-dye any piece of light-colored cloth? Yep! You can make your own crazy socks, festive cloth napkins or a personalized beach towel! 

Featured in: July/August 2021

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