Making Sharpie tie dye is the great way to get kids creative this summer! It is a fun kids activity that will keep kids from being bored. If you are looking for more boredom busting ideas check out all our summer crafts and activities ideas to keep kids active and entertained this summer! The best craft bloggers are sharing fun kids crafts! From this fun Qtip Game to a Summer Nature Scavenger Hunt you will find fun creative ideas!
It’s summer which means finding fun, easy and exciting activities for the kids.
Sharpie Tie Dye
I love mixing my love of creating with science, which makes Sharpie Tie Dye the perfect activity. Especially since I have a boy, he’s not always so eager to craft with mom unless there’s some “wow” factor.
This project is great for kids of all ages and perfect for birthday parties and themed events.
Sharpie Tie Dye Supplies
- Sharpies in a variety of colors – Get the regular kind. The Sharpie Fabric Markers don’t work as well. Trust me.
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Spray bottle or dropper
- Card board or something to use as a barrier
- T-Shirt
1. First you’ll want to place your cardboard barrier inside the shirt. This keeps the inks and alcohol from soaking through.
2. Choose your colors and start making dots in any design that inspires you. I found that tapping the fabric with the marker worked better than trying to draw.
3. After you’ve got your design finished, take the spray bottle that you’ve filled with rubbing alcohol and give it a good spray.
It starts to bleed immediately. Let it continue until you think it’s finished spreading.
4. AIR DRY / IRON / DRYER – I let mine dry outside for a bit before taking the cardboard barrier out and ironing. When ironing, place an old rag on your ironing board as well as on top of your t-shirt. Some of the design will come off on your rag. Iron. Place your dry t-shirt into the dryer and dry on high for about 20 minutes. That should help set the color. Wash separately the first time on cold. No bleach.
It didn’t bleed as much as I was hoping, but it’s fun. I think these would be great to try with red and blue for the 4th of July!
Experiment and have fun!
If you’re looking for another fun science project for the kids, check out my Rainbow in a Jar.
Find more creative Inspiration on Today’s Creative Blog and InspirationDIY.
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How when you wash the shirt can you get the Design not to fade away …..
Thanks Angela for the tip!
I found it spreads better when the fabric is not touching anything ie: with a cup or bowl under the sections versus touching cardboard
I used an eye dropper. The more they bleed the less the color stays. Do in a circle dots not to close to look like fireworks. Heat set or it fades out when washing. I soaked mine in vinegar water too.