Dyeing a Jacket

[Chas]

Ebay is my friend and I have bought many and various items in the past. One of many jackets is this one, worn at last year's Christmas party.



This is a picture, by way of contrast. The Argyle in question on the left, a PC in the middle and a Royal Regiment of Scotland doublet on the right - all green.



As you can see, it is bright to say the least.

It was made by Geoffrey (Tailor).



They use their own button style:



And a close-up of the fabric:



It is quite bright and although I don't dislike it, I would like it a lot more if it was a bit more subdued.

So, what I am wondering is this - Can it be dyed? I am thinking colour more in line with the PC above.

I have done hose, so I know the basics, but this is far larger. Should I leave it to a professional, or would this be within my capabilities?

If anyone has done any large scale dyeing, I would appreciate some step by step pointers.

Regards

Chas

[Friday]

Considering the maker I would assume that it is wool. Synthetic material may not be dye-able or the results would be unsatisfactory. My suggestion would be to check with a couple of local dry cleaner (or the UK equivalent ?) and ask if they dye wool and the cost. They should have experience and the results could be nicer.

Now ever if it is 100% wool it can be over dyed.

Dyeing Wool & Silk with Dharma Fiber Reactive Dyes

[theborderer]

PM Sent

[Pleater]

What is not mentioned in those instructions is that the item should be wet when put into the dye bath - even if a mordant is not required the item should be wet, and should have been brought up to the temperature of the dye bath gradually if it is wool.

Plunging a dry jacket straight into a hot dyebath is a recipe for - probably obtaining the material for a nice felted handbag.

Anne the Pleater :ootd:

[piperdbh]

Whatever you do, don't use Rit dye. It's not permanent and bleeds like there's no tomorrow. Jacquard makes good colorfast dyes, in both a natural fiber-dye and a polyester/blend-dye. You have to pay attention and get the right dye for the fiber content of the jacket.