Name: Stella

Message: I am creating a gown for stage from multiple sources...mostly older remnants that have a ecru/cream or yellowed color that I would like to make white. I have learned from this site that bleach would destroy this beautiful creation and wondered if it is possible to chemically make the materials white. I am only in construction phase, (final product not due until March 26, 08)and the pieces have not yet been sewn together in case I had to use different methods to wash out the yellowed appearance from each. The main dress is 55% cotton, 15% Poleyester and 30% rayon.

The sleeves will be 100 % polyester...the fabric for the bell effect
on the sleeve is 52% cotton and 48% polyester...what do I do? Is it possible? Or should I just use what I have as a pattern and go buy the materials in white...an expense I hope I don't have to do.

You can try using Rit Color Remover. It is less damaging to fibers than chlorine bleach. Jacquard Color Remover is a different chemical which works by the same principal and will give similar results.

It is impossible to predict whether or not it will work, until you try it. Some dyes cannot be removed no matter what you do, and you don't know what dyes were used in your fabrics. The Color Remover might work on some of your fabrics, but not others.

Rit Color Remover works better when used on the stovetop, to achieve hotter temperatures, but you should be careful not to use more heat than your fabrics can tolerate. Polyester can stand heat, but spandex cannot, and different fabrics will shrink to different degrees. It is easier to use this product in the washing machine, though the temperature of hot tap water does not work as well.

See "What chemicals can be used to remove dye?".


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