Cover your work surface with a plastic table cover to protect from spills.
Pre-wash the white cotton t-shirts to remove any sizing or residue.
Dampen the t-shirts with water to help the dye spread more evenly.
Twist, fold, or scrunch the shirts into desired tie-dye patterns.
Secure the folded shirts tightly with rubber bands to hold the shape.
Fill plastic squeeze bottles with washable fabric dye or food coloring mixed with water.
Wear rubber gloves to protect hands from staining during dye application.
Apply dye to each section of the shirt, using different colors as desired.
Place each dyed shirt into a plastic bag or wrap in plastic wrap to contain the mess.
Let the shirts sit in the plastic for at least 6 hours to allow the dye to set.
Remove the shirts from the plastic and rinse under cold water until water runs clear.
Carefully remove the rubber bands from the shirts after rinsing.
Wash the shirts separately in cold water using a gentle cycle.
Add a small amount of vinegar to the wash to help set the color, if desired.
Dry the shirts completely in a dryer or hang them to air dry.
Clean up the work area and dispose of used plastic responsibly.
Store leftover dye in labeled bottles for future use.
Encourage kids to wear old clothes or aprons during the activity.
Supervise children closely when handling dye and water.
Enjoy the colorful, mess-free tie-dye shirts created by your kids!
