DO IT YOURSELF Winter 2020 93A
B
ICE DYEING To get the full
ice-dyeing how-to, see
page 19. Experiment with
fabric folding and rubber
band techniques. Roll into
a spiral for a traditional tie-
dye look, gather into tufts
for a bull’s-eye effect, this
photo, or fold into a square
for a checkered pattern.
After 12 hours, remove the
rubber bands and rinse until
the water runs clear. For a
quicker dyeing process, mix
the dye powder, hot water,
and salt in a spray bottle,
and spray onto fabric. Wrap
in plastic and let sit for two
to three hours before rinsing
the fabric in cold water.
Wash dyed fabric in warm
water with a mild detergent,
rinse, and air-dry away from
heat or direct sunlight.
UPHOLSTERED OTTOMANA thrifted
side table becomes funky extra seating
with a new cushioned topper, below.
Trace the top of the ottoman onto a
1/2-inch-thick plywood project panel,
and cut with a jigsaw. Cut a 2-inch-
thick foam sheet to match, tapering the
corners slightly for a softer look. Gather
loose fiberfill, flat batting, and tie-dyed
muslin (A); trim to size. Wrap the layers
around the plywood and foam, pulling
opposite sides taut, making pleats at
the corners, and stapling in place as
you go (B). Sand all wood surfaces of
the ottoman base, and wipe away the
dust. Brush on two coats of chalk-
finish paint; let dry. For a naturally worn
look, lightly sand the edges. Apply two
coats of sealer. Once dry, screw the
cushion onto the base from the inside
of cabinet. To revive tarnished brass
hardware, clean with water, then soak
in a vinegar and salt solution and scrub
with an abrasive kitchen sponge.