Dyed Curtains: Questions Answered

Thanks so much to everyone who commented on the dyed curtains!  I received lots of questions about them and thought it would be best to respond in the form of a post for reference.  If you are completely ready to move on to another topic - can't say that I blame you.  Please stop by another time ;)

I really just followed the instructions on the box.  If you have more questions, you can check out the rit dye website.  I considered combining colors, but decided to keep it simple this time around.  The site also covers topics like how to chose your fabric, ombre dyeing (which would be fun to try), and washing machine dyeing.

Here is what I did...

1)  I pre-washed the curtains to remove any finish that might be on the fabric that may prevent an even dye. 

2)  It is important to use the right amount of dye and this is based on the weight of your fabric.  Two pairs of curtains requires two boxes of dye dissolved in 2 cups (per package) of hot water.

3)  Next I added dye along with 1 cup of salt and one tablespoon of detergent to my top loading washing machine and filled with hot water.  Agitate to mix. 

4)  Uncrumple and add damp curtains to dyebath.  Set machine for extended wash cycle before rinse begins.  Oops, I didn't make it to the machine in time and missed this step.  They turned out ok though.
Fabric should be in the dyebath at least 30 minutes.

5)  Dry curtains. 

Worth mentioning:

Ritva curtains come with hem tape which had already been applied to my curtains.  The tape lasted through the pre-wash stage, but fell apart during the dye process (perhaps because of the salt?).  My advice is to wait until after dyeing to apply any hem tape.

 I hope this helps.  If any of you dye your curtains I would love to see them!