How to Use Rit All-Purpose Dye

This versatile dye is ideal for almost any job that’s on your to-do list. Each little package packs a colorful punch and is ready to deliver a custom touch to garments new and old, household items, and more. 

No matter what you plan to dye, whether it’s a pair of jeans or set of curtains, the first step is to choose the right dye for your fabric or material. Always check the care label for the fiber content of the item you plan to dye.

This dye is for natural fabrics, such as cotton, linen, wool, silk and ramie. It also dyes rayon and nylon. If the garment you want to dye contains more than 35% synthetic material (such as polyester, acrylic or acetate), then you must use Rit DyeMore Synthetic Fiber Dye instead.

Important Notes

Synthetic Blends
If your garment contains more than 35% synthetic material (such as polyester, acrylic or acetate), then see our page for dyeing synthetic fabrics with Rit DyeMore Synthetic fiber dye instead.

Color
If the garment you are dyeing is white or off white, then you should be able to achieve true color. If the garment has an existing color, then please review our instructions on how to change the color of a garment.

Patterns and Logos
If the garment you are dyeing has a pattern or logo, the color you use will mix with the existing color(s) in the fabric and create new colors. To learn more about this, please review our instructions on overdyeing patterns and logos.

Bleach Stains and Sun Damage
Sun and bleach actually damage fabric, making it very difficult to dye. If you still want to try and dye a garment with bleach or sun damage, you could try using Rit Color Remover on the garment before dyeing. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee this will work.

Select Your Method

For general dye projects, use the sink or bucket method.

If you are looking to achieve as vibrant a color as possible (or dyeing nylon), use the stovetop method.

If you want to dye large items or are looking for the easiest dye method, then use the washing machine method.