So I thought I’d dye myself a piece that would be (depending on the tonal depth) be for either Mirabilia’s Raven Queen or Rose of Sharon.
I picked up some plain white 32ct linen from Spotlight – they had it marked at $13.99 pm rather than per 10cm! – cut off a section and paired it with Dylon Elephant Gray. Which is clearly not that gray.
Almost a complete fail. I was going for a 415 tone, not part way thru 341 & 3747! But at least it’s even, no blotchy bits!
I think I’ll list it in the up cycle group and try again.
sewscrapmuse 
It is frutstrating when this happens. Firstly – why not try an overdye before you pass it on – secondly, this may answer your problem….
Linen is very difficutl to dye. It doesn’t react in the same way as cotton. The fibres are difficult to break down to accept the dye, so there is a little trick. I know it sounds odd – but try putting the linen in the freezer for 24 hours before starting the dyeing process. Put the dye onto the still frozen fabric – keep it moving and it will soon defrost. If you can freeze it flat it’s a good idea – but fold it as little as possible otherwise. Email me if this doesn’t make sense – I’ll try to explain it l little better 😉
Put it in the freezer dry or damp?
Dry. The cold will do its work.
Cool I had pre-washed this piece (actually followed directions!) so still need to do that?
No need to rewash it should be fine, presuming you haven’t used any starch etc. Fabric conditioner shouldn’t be a bother either if you have used that.
No – I just used mild dishwash liquid as that is what I use when I finish a piece.
Those are only cursory instructions, could go on for ever 😉
Yeah I’ll play. Spotlight have 30-50% off today so I’ll get a few sachets anyway
Sounds a good idea 😆
I got an iDye in a natural 🙂 so will try that tonight.