3 Fun Ways to Tie-Dye a Scarf and Create Gorgeous Patterns

Tie-dye might immediately bring you back to making T-shirts at camp or the screaming color combos of the ’70s. But the multi-colored patterns are back, and this time they’re modern, sophisticated and totally wearable.

Dyed Scarves

LeveL: Easy

What You Need

Thread Method

Craft Stick Method

Tube and Twine Method

Instructions: Thread Method

1. Design the Pattern

Fold the bandana into an accordion. Use a disappearing fabric pen to draw your simple design along the top. You can free-hand or use a stencil (we used a simple piece of paper cut into a triangle to make a zig-zag).

2. Stitch and Bunch

Thread a needle with two strands of string and follow your pattern design with a simple running stitch. Start a new thread every couple of inches, and leave a few inches of excess thread hanging off every time you switch.

When you’re done stitching, pull the thread tight so the fabric bunches up, and tie the strands together to hold the bunched fabric in place.

3. Dye

Soak the bandana in water, then soak it in dye for three to five minutes. Take the bandana out of the dye and let it sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and cut out all the string.

Look at those diamonds!

Instructions: Craft Stick Method

1. Fold

Fold the bandana into an accordion, then fold in half horizontally. Fold the ends of the bandana back over to form a package that matches the length of the craft stick, as shown in the video.

2. Add the Sticks

Place three craft sticks on either side of the bandana and secure everything together with rubber bands.

3. Dye

Soak the bandana in water, then soak it in dye for three to five minutes. Take the bandana out of the dye and let it sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water and remove the rubber bands and craft sticks.

So fab!

Instructions: Tube and Twine Method

1. Wrap

With the bandana in an accordion fold, wrap it around a plastic tube. Secure both sides with rubber bands.

2. Wind

Tie a length of twine around one of the rubber bands and wind it around the tube and bandana. When you reach the end of the bandana, tie the twine off. Remove the rubber bands and push the twine and bandana ends together so the fabric bunches up on the tube.

3. Dye

Soak the bandana in water, then soak it in dye for three to five minutes. Take the bandana out of the dye and let it sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, cut the twine and remove the bandana from the tube.

And you’re done! Honestly, it’s impossible to decide which one is coolest.