Adult STEM: Rust Dying
Iron is a metal that oxidizes when it comes in contact with air and moisture. When this happens, the surface becomes red or brown due to the formation of iron oxides. Fabric placed in contact with this rusty surface quickly absorbs the color and develops a permanent print that is impossible to remove.
This will be a two part program.
Supplies:
100% Cotton Fabric
Spray Bottle
Vinegar
Rusty Object (Horse Shoe)
Plastic bag
Part One (Dying the Fabric):
The Process:
1. Wet the fabric so that it is damp or moist, but not dripping.
2. Create your rust pattern by wrapping or folding the fabric in and around your rusty object(s). You can even choose to bind it more tightly with string or other wire to press the rust more securely into the fabric.
3. Generously spray with vinegar solution (1 part water 2 parts vinegar)
4. Place inside a plastic bag and twist shut. Let sit overnight or until you feel that you have enough rust color to your satisfaction. The longer you leave the fabric in contact with the rust the deeper the color becomes.
5. To stop the rust process, remove the rust object from the fabric and rinse your fabric.
6. Let dry and move onto part 2.
Part Two:
Supplies:
Needle and thread
Insul bright batting
Rust dyed fabric
Sewing the Hot pad:
1. Place your fabric RS (right sides) together with batting on top.
2. Stitch around the fabric leaving a 4" opening in the center of one side.
3. Turn right side out and stitch the opening closed.
4. Creatively stitch patterns across your square. These designs will help to hold the batt in place.
After objects are bound
Fabric drying