Dyeing ribbons, lace & more ....

Hi

Just a quick post for info:

Create vintage accents instantly using this simple aging technique:

2 tsp instant coffee
1 tsp white vinegar
1 cup boiling water

 

Dissolve the coffee in boiling water & add vinegar. Soak the accents until your desired colour is reached.  (several tries may be needed)  Dry the accents on paper towels and/or use a heat gun.

 

Tea bags can also be used & are more true to colour.  The tea bags tend to be a bit lighter.

 

Cotton grabs the colour while nylon is much slower.

 

Have fun experimenting!!

 

Bye for now

Meg

www.megsgarden.com

 

"Tea staining has been around a long time and was first used to hide stains on linens. Tea staining is an easy way to create an "antique" or primitive look. The differences between tea staining & coffee staining are subtle. Tea is lighter and gives a more 'dirty' look. Coffee seems browner and give a more 'old' look. Just be aware that coffee is much more aromatic than tea, and your finished item will smell like coffee for a long time to come. We have found that some fabrics (or paper) look better tea stained and some look better coffee stained. We have tea stained & coffee stained with both brewed and instant, both gave satisfactory results, I just find instant easier, but there is not near as much color selection.  Earl Grey is usually the tea of choice, but English breakfast is ok, too. Check out your grocery store or specialty shops and buy black tea for a gentle, soft brown, antique look.  "from http://www.primitive-beginnings.com