Rit Dye is a favorite among creators, reworkers, and DIY enthusiasts – but not all materials take dye equally well. Here we explain which fabrics work best, which ones to avoid, and which Rit product to choose.
💡 Two different colors – choose the right type
- Rit All-Purpose Dye: For natural and blended fibers
- Rit DyeMore for Synthetics: For polyester and other synthetics
✅ Materials that work well
Med Rit All-Purpose Dye
- Cotton
- Linen
- Rayon (viscose)
- Silk
- Wool
- Nylon (limited)
With Rit DyeMore
- Polyester
- Polyester blends (at least 35% polyester)
- Acrylic (limited results)
- Acetate
- Spandex (blended with polyester – note: stretchability may be affected)
🚫 Materials that cannot be dyed
- 100% acrylic (does not absorb paint)
- Fabrics with water-repellent treatment
- Gore-Tex, vinyl, plastic
- Coated or oiled fabrics
📌 Check the wash label before dyeing
For best results, double check the material content. Many garments are blends, and this will determine which type of Rit Dye you should use.
🔍 Not sure which colorant you need?
Use this rule:
- More than 50% natural material? → Use Rit All-Purpose Dye
- More than 35% polyester or synthetic? → Use Rit DyeMore
Bonus: DyeMore requires almost boiling water when dyeing
🎨 Time to add color?
We have everything you need – including ColorStay Fixative for the best durability.
