Deka L hot water, direct dyes for all cellulose fibres and fabrics including cotton, linen, and viscose, and are also effective on silk and wool. They will dye some nylons and some synthetic blends although colour results will be muted. Please note that the dyes will not colour polyester and other synthetic threads, often used in the construction of garments.
These convenient 10g sized sachets are adequate to colour between 125g and 250g of fabric, depending on the shade density required. Keep the dye bath at the highest temperature suitable for the fabric for best results.
Deka L dyes are suitable for general dyeing, shibori tie dyeing and batik. To prevent the batik wax resist from melting, a higher concentration of dye at a lower temperature is required.
Dyed fabric is machine wash fast to 30°C and fastness can be improved by using Deka L Fixative or Fixitol P. Not suitable for dyeing synthetic fibres. To obtain a jet black, a maintained temperature of at least 90°C degrees and a longer dyeing time is required.
(TIP: We recommended Fibrecrafts Procion MX dyes, which do not need hot water, as an alternative to Deka L dyes for batik.)
General Dyeing Instructions for Deka L Dyes
- Weigh fabric to be dyed, then wash and rinse to remove sizing, fabric softener etc.
- A 10g sachet contains enough dye powder to dye between 125g and 250g (dry weight) fabric. Dissolve dye powder and 2 table spoons salt in 4-5 litres of boiling water and stir well. For silk and wool, also add 8-10 table spoons of white vinegar.
- Dampen fabric, put loosely into the dye bath. Maintain the highest temperature suitable for the fabric (a maximum of 90°C).
- Stir frequently for 15-30 minutes.
- Remove fabric and rinse thoroughly under cold running water until water runs clear.
- Always treat pieces requiring frequent cleaning with the Deka L Fixative or Fixatol P. This will help to prevent colours from fading when washing on a gentle washing machine cycle at 30°C. Wash separately for first few washes.









