Dyeing Canvas

[Jack Long]

How hard is it to do a GOOD job of dyeing canvas? Like, sailcover/dodger?

They are starting a sort of blue/teal/aqua color not white...

[Maren]

Originally Posted by Jack Long

How hard is it to do a GOOD job of dyeing canvas? Like, sailcover/dodger?

They are starting a sort of blue/teal/aqua color not white...

If you mean real canvas (i.e., cotton based), no problem. Most of what is used on sailboats is not canvas though. Its any of a number of synthetic materials such as Dacron or Polyester. They do not dye well. On the plus side they tend to be more resistant to UV degradation.

The volume of liquids makes handeling an issue as does other requirements such as temperature when dying or drying. Best to let the pros supply what you are looking for.

[Sailormann]

How hard is it to do a GOOD job of dyeing canvas? Like, sailcover/dodger?

Very hard. Pretty well impossible to get a completely even coloured result. The fabric will have absorbed things, the chemistry of individual fibres will have changed. Even if you have a large pressure vat like a professional dye house, you are not likely to be too happy with the result.

Easier to cover the existing item. Lay out each section flat, make a pattern and then tack it on to the original. Pay attention to the fabric grain.


Good Luck. ! HOpe things work out well

[Pblais]

How hard is it to do a GOOD job of dyeing canvas? Like, sailcover/dodger?

This topic has come up before. The basic answer is impossible.

The colors you see are what is known as solution dyed. That means the dye is in the thread that the fabric is made of. The thread is chemically made with the color in it then woven into cloth. I know of no fabric that can be dyed and can withstand UV rays for any significant amount of time. Even solution dyed fabrics have a tough go of it.

Not all colors fair as well as others. Anything on the red side of anything fades faster. Blues and greens seem to hold up better. The ironic part is this is exactly the reverse for paint pigments.

[Amgine]

Even the natural fibres, although easy enough to dye, should be colored by a professional firm. They have the expertise to use UV blockers and treat the material for long-term exposure.

In North America the trade names Permasol, Terrasol, Vivatex and Sunforger have been used for a UV and weather- treated cotton canvas designed for awnings and outdoor use. Available colors and patterns vary depending on the producer and the year. I believe Vivatex is still in use by some sailmakers for covers.

[veinreyes]

I will to use off-white/natural shades when I dye fabric because it gives them a bit of richness.

Just pick on what's your taste.I agree of those ideas that they shared.Good luck!