In Threads #174 (August/September 2014), authors Nick Coman and Chase Wong of Dragonfly Dyeworks explain a fascinating way to create random, unique patterns on fabric with ice dyeing. For complete details on how to ice-dye fabric, read “Embellishments: Ice-borne color.” Here, they share a few of their favorite color combinations for ice dyeing.

There are multiple tried-and-true color combinations that give attractive and interesting results in ice dyeing. Most dye materials suppliers have a similar selection of colors, although the names may be different. Here are some excellent color combinations (names specific to Dharma Trading’s Procion Fiber-Reactive Dyes):

• Moss Green, Terra Cotta, and Palomino Gold

• Charcoal, Pewter, and Gunmetal Gray

• Oxblood and Pewter

• Maroon and Bronze

• Cayman Green and Caribbean Blue

• Strong Navy, Cayman Green, and Periwinkle

• Bronze and Wedgewood Blue

• Lemon Yellow, Deep Orange, and Fuchsia

• Dusty Rose, Lavender, and Wedgewood Blue

• Imperial Purple, Lavender, Hydrangea, and Sage Green

• Moss Green, Celadon, and Forest Green

What is your favorite color combination? Have you ever ice-dyed fabrics? If so, what did you think of the process? If you haven’t tried this method of dyeing yet, do you plan to try it?

For complete details on how to ice-dye fabric, read "Embellishments: Ice-borne color" from Threads #174 (August/September 2014).

Applying three powders in blended colors to twisted fabric yielded this kaleidoscopic design.