How to Dye Wool for Rug Hooking: Getting Started

Just getting started can be the most difficult step. My best advice is to arm yourself with information, the right tools and enough wool so that if something goes wrong, you can try again. The first step is to get supplied. Order from PRO Chem the following items:

A Fast Way to Dye Rug Hooking Wool

Yesterday you saw how my kitchen counter looks after several days of dyeing. Life often gets in the way so I have developed a method that helps me to get at least a batch or two done even on the busiest days.

Dyeing Rug Hooking Wool is Messy

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This post is for Hilda in Olive Branch, MS. Hilda is thinking about getting into dyeing. I hope this does not scare you off, Hilda.

Dyeing Basics: The Science of Dyeing Wool for Rug Hooking

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I will have the dye pots out for the month of April. This is when I prepare for all the workshops I will be teaching the rest of the year. It’s not a perfect process and I will usually have to get them out again throughout the year, but only for specific jobs. Here are [...]

Measurements for Dyeing Made Easy

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I spent the weekend in Centerville, OH with my good friend, Sue Ellen Fox.  In the evening we got to talking about dyeing.  Measurements can be really confusing.  Make them simplier by using a number line.  Remember those from elementary math class? Now keep in mind that every time you double a recipe you make [...]

Dye Methods: Marbelizing Wool

Before

As promised yesterday, here is the information on the marbelizing method.  Follow this quick recipe: Place wool that you have rolled and twisted into a large pan. Cover with water. Add a healthy dose of soap.  I prefer Ivory dish soap, but laundry soap will work also.  Just be sure it does NOT have bleach.  [...]

To dye or not to dye.

I found this in my drafts. It was never posted. I received a question and thought I would answer it in a new post. I am a newbie to rug hooking, and have a slightly silly question. Do you buy undyed wool? Or do you over dye? New rug hookers are often frustrated when their [...]

Alaina helps me dye again

Here is Ally helping my get ready to dye today. The bottom picture is of Ally several years ago when she helped me test my dye book colors. Notice the difference in her height. She is officially taller than me.