How do I weigh my fabric?

Weigh the dry fabric on kitchen scales before wetting. The dry weight determines dye quantities. For garments, check the label or weigh on a kitchen scale.

Does fabric type affect dye amount?

Yes. Natural fibres like cotton and linen absorb dye well. Polyester requires special dye types. Blends may need more dye to achieve the same depth of colour.

Salt helps the dye bond to the fabric fibres, especially with fibre-reactive dyes. It drives the dye out of solution and into the fabric for even, permanent colour.

Fibre-reactive dyes need soda ash (sodium carbonate) as a fixer to permanently bond the dye to the fibre. Without it, the colour will wash out.

CraftCalcs

Fabric Dye Calculator — Dye Amounts by Weight

Calculate dye powder or liquid amounts based on fabric weight and desired depth of colour.

Fabric Weight (dry)

Weigh fabric dry

Dye Type

Colour Depth

Water Volume

Price Per Pack (optional)

Pack Size

How We Calculate This

The calculator uses your fabric weight and multiplies by the dye rate per kg for your dye type, adjusted by colour depth.

Light colours use half the standard amount, medium uses the standard, and dark uses double.

Salt and fixer quantities are calculated proportionally to fabric weight based on standard dyeing recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.