Message: Hi, I'm a professional weaver, not a dyer but I need to dye some fine cashmere as I can only obtain it in natural. I'm vat dyeing finished scarves and shawls using the Country Classic One-shot. My problem is that I'm getting too much color. I want to give them just a tinge of pastel color. With a one-shot acid dye, if I reduce the amount of dye, do I still get enough acid and auxillary chemistry to get a good fast dye job? OR is it better to reduce the time in the dye pot?

Since I have never done this, I would suggest that you consult ProChem for the answer to this question. Their technical department is quite helpful, and, unlike many dye suppliers, they do read their e-mail.

It seems likely that you might need a bit more acid, but it would be best to ask.

They also sell other types of acid dyes, to which you add your own vinegar or other auxilliaries, which would allow more versatility.

See http://www.prochemical.com/contact.htm . They also have some One Shot instructions at http://www.prochemical.com/directions/OneShot.htm which seem to imply that less dye should work just fine.