How to Ice Tie Dye

Use our easy technique for ice-dyeing to spruce up your everyday wares.

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Updated on March 25, 2021

Use our foolproof technique for ice-dyeing—tie-dye's subtler, less messy cousin—to give any solid cotton fabric a watercolor wash, then wrap up the theme with a simple red bow at each setting. Ahead, learn how to create this fun DIY for an enjoyable afternoon with the whole family.

What You'll Need

Materials

Wire rack
Powder dye (Jacquard Cold Water Dye in Assorted Colors)
Plastic bin
Fabric (West Elm Frayed Edge Cotton Tablecloth)
Ice cubes

Instructions

To prep the fabric, place the rack over the bin (or directly in a sink). Soak the fabric in water, then twist and wind it into a snake shape on the rack to create a wave pattern.
Gather the fabric into the center of the rack, and cover it with ice cubes.
Sprinkle the dye on top and let the ice melt. To set the pattern, wash and dry the fabric separately.

Originally appeared: MARTHA STEWART LIVING, JULY/AUGUST 2017