Lady poured dye over ice and the transformation was just wow

Transform your outdoor gatherings with a unique and vibrant ice-dyed picnic blanket. This DIY project not only adds a splash of color to your picnic setup but also offers a fun and creative activity to do at home. Ice dyeing is a simple yet effective technique that uses melting ice to create beautiful, watercolor-like patterns on fabric. It's perfect for those who love to personalize their spaces and enjoy a touch of artistry in their everyday items.

This ice-dyed picnic blanket can be a stunning focal point in your outdoor space. Pair it with neutral-colored picnic baskets and tableware to let the vibrant colors stand out. Consider using complementary colors for your picnic accessories, such as cushions or napkins, to create a cohesive and inviting setup. Indoors, you can drape the blanket over a sofa or use it as a wall hanging to add a pop of color and texture to your living space.

1 large cotton or linen blanket (preferably white or light-colored)
Fiber reactive dyes in various colors
1 bag of ice cubes
Plastic drop cloth or tarp
Wire rack
Protective gloves
Plastic squeeze bottles (optional)
Rubber bands or string

Lay down a plastic drop cloth or tarp to protect your working area.

Place the wire rack on top of the tarp. This will allow the melting ice and dye to drip through.

Fold or scrunch the blanket into your desired pattern and secure it with rubber bands or string.

Place the folded blanket on the wire rack.

Cover the blanket with a generous layer of ice cubes.

Sprinkle the fiber reactive dyes over the ice. You can use squeeze bottles for more precision if desired.

Allow the ice to melt completely, which may take several hours. The melting ice will carry the dye through the fabric, creating unique patterns.

Once the ice has melted, carefully remove the blanket and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear.

Wash the blanket separately in a washing machine using a gentle cycle and cold water.

Dry the blanket according to the fabric's care instructions.

To create different effects, experiment with various folding techniques such as spirals, pleats, or crumples before applying the ice and dye. You can also try using different color combinations to match specific themes or seasons. For a more subtle look, use lighter shades of dye or limit the number of colors. If you prefer a more controlled design, consider using stencils or resist techniques to create specific patterns or shapes on the fabric.