https://www.cutoutandkeep.net/projects/sun-printed-linen-tablecloth • Posted by A Happy Stitch (Melissa Q.)
This fun sun-printing technique using nature to make a one-of-a-kind tablecloth. Great as a special gift or keep it to beautify your table.
This fun sun-printing technique using nature to make a one-of-a-kind tablecloth. Great as a special gift or keep it to beautify your table.
Gather small to medium sized greenery from outside. I suggest gathering a lot as you can also decide not to use some of it but it's annoying to not have enough. Press the leaves under a heavy object for at least 30 minutes.
You want to work in a ventilated area that is dark but has easy access to sunlight. You don’t want any light to hit the dye before you are ready. I suggest working inside a garage. Start by taping the tablecloth down on top of cardboard. Be sure to tape the edges down so your tablecloth doesn't move. You can also use the tape to create a design like I did. Once I had the fabric taped, I prepped my inkodye. Add one cup of water to the dye and then paint it on with a brush. The water dilutes it a little bit and allows the dye to cover more surface area. Once the dye is on the fabric, place your greenery where you want it, avoiding having too much overlap. Then, pull the whole thing into the sun for about 8 minutes. It’s really stinky stuff but don't worry, the smell completely dissipates.
In the sunlight, the dye will change from a purple color to sky blue. Once it has been exposed to the sun for a full 8 minutes, pull it back into darkness and remove the tape and the leaves.
Throw the tablecloth into the washing machine and dryer right away without any further exposure to the sun. You can use an Inkowash product but I didn’t have any and it worked fine without it. Enjoy!