Storing thickened dyes

[dianaj]

Hello everybody,

I'm new and have been pouring over this site taking in the incredible information.  What a friendly bunch you all are!  I've just started tye dying and I want to try using thicker(Superclear) for the first time.
I have 2 small children and would like to mix up some dyes to store in the fridge to use when I can over the summer.
Is it ok to store thickened dye or would it be better to add thickener as I go once my dye has warmed to room temperature?

Thanks for all your help

Diana

[tiedyejudy]

I usually add the superclear when I mix my dyes, then store any unused in the fridge.  However, if you are concerned your little ones will get into the dyes, may be best to mix just what you think you might use in one dye session.  Thickened or not, the dyes will store better in a cool location, otherwise they will lose strength over a short period of time.

Judy

[dianaj]

Thanks for the fast response.  We have a second fridge in the basement that is practically empty so its a perfect place to store dye.  My kids don't get into it.  It would be great simply from a  time perspective to have my dyes already mixed up and I just wasn't sure if the thickened dye would still be good if chilled.

Diana

[pburch]

Be sure you add some powdered water softener, sodium hexametaphosphate. If you're using print paste mix for your thickener, it's already in there; otherwise, you need to add it as an additional ingredient. (Don't use liquid water softener, because it's a different chemical which can interfere with dyeing.)

My water here is not hard at all, but it has just enough calcium ions for the alginate to form a gel in some of the bottles. Since alginate gel does not melt even when heated, it was almost impossible to clean out the bottles.

Paula

[dianaj]

Thanks Paula,

I actually mix my dyes with distilled water since I'm not making large volumes and I just need a couple of gallons.

I ordered superclear after reading info I got from your forum.  It seems like it's the most user friendly for a newbie!

Diana