Name: Terri
Message: I got bleach on a green-ish linen dress.  I removed as much of the color from the dress as possible and would like to re-dye it. I don't know what type of dye to use and don't know where to get it.  Rit is so limited.  Thank you very much for your time.

The best kind of dye to use for any plant fiber, such as linen, is cool water fiber reactive dye. The most popular type is Procion MX. Cool water fiber reactive dye is the easiest dye to use, and lasts the longest. In contrast, all-purpose dye requires very hot water, which is bad for clothing, and tends to bleed badly during laundering.

Sometimes you can get lucky and find some Procion MX dye in a local crafts store (look for the Jacquard brand), and Dylon Cold Water Dye isn't bad, though it is expensive for the tiny amount that you get (avoid Dylon Multi-Purpose Dye!). However, the best prices and selection can be found by mail-order. The dyes I recommend most are packaged by either Rupert Gibbon & Spider or by PRO Chemical & Dye. See my list of different dye supply companies around the world.

If you were able to eradicate almost all of the difference in color, you may be able to dye your dress a solid color. The easiest way to do this is in the washing machine (see the FAQs on my web site). If the difference in color is noticeable, you will do better to aim at a mottled effect using low water immersion dyeing. Note that the stitching on the dress is probably polyester and will remain the original color after dyeing.


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