To find the manufacturers’ instructions, look for a care tag or label on the inside of your cashmere item. Do not dry the cashmere after washing: for dyeing, it is best if the garment is already damp.
In some cases, you will need to choose two different dyes to result in the color you desire. If you have a blue cashmere that you want dyed brown, for example, you will need to combine red and yellow dyes. If you wish to color your cashmere a lighter color than it currently is, you will need to use a commercial color remover before you dye it. [1] X Research source Read the color remover’s instructions to ensure the remover is safe to be used on cashmere, as cashmere is a sensitive wool.
Commercial dye brands you could choose include RIT dye, DYLON dye and Procion MX dyes. [3] X Research source
Let the dye soak into the sample for at least 30 minutes, as this will be roughly the amount of time you will use to dye your cashmere item.
Remember to check the cashmere’s care label to know how warm the water should be, as most cashmere garments are sensitive to warm temperatures. If possible, cold water dyeing is best for cashmere. [5] X Research source If you are using a powdered dye, dissolve the dye in 2 cups of hot water before adding it to your dye bath. [6] X Research source Make sure the dye is 100 percent dissolved before you move on to adding the cashmere.
It is important to keep the fabric moving, so use a long spoon to keep stirring and redistributing the water. [8] X Research source When stirring the fabric, be careful not to twist or wring it. Cashmere is pliable when wet and it can be pulled out of shape if twisted.
To lift your cashmere, lump it into a ball and move it upwards. Try not to pick the garment up by the shoulders, as this will cause stretching. Remember that wet cashmere looks darker than it does when dried.
If you have been using warm or lukewarm water to dye your cashmere, continue to use the same temperature water to rinse the item. If you suddenly change the temperature, the cashmere may shrink.
Let the cashmere dry at room temperature, avoiding heat and sunlight.
Try to avoid tugging or pulling the cashmere by patting the wool back into shape. If the cashmere item has an attached belt, place the belt away from the cashmere on each side. For removable belts, dry the belt separately. [11] X Research source
When using chemical cleaning items, ensure you wear gloves.
If you do not plan to wear or use your cashmere for an extended time, place the cashmere inside a dust bag or sealable container to protect it from moths.
