Dyeing the woolen twill fabric which is traditionally used for Pateh Doozi ,I created a new colour scheme . I also dyed a variety of yarns and fibres to use in further projects which made the project even more fun ! I really wanted to see how well the fabric would dye and experiment with possibilities. The woolen Arriz fabric takes the dye extremely well.
Health & Safety in the Dye Lab
Safety in the dye lab is an absolute requirement for all dyeing activity whether it be in your own kitchen , in an educational establishment or in a factory . Personal safety as in exposure to chemical particles from dye and mordant substances can be dangerous for the skin and also inhaling therefore the lungs and throat. Wearing a protective face mask , preferably the N95 mask will prevent any inhalation and must be worn when handling all kinds of chemical substances. Protective gloves and protective glasses are also a requirement . I personally do not use protective glasses but I am only dyeing in small quantities but exposure to chemicals can cause irritation and burning to the skin and eyes .Protective gloves should be latex as thick washing up gloves can make you clumsy …and you do not want that when you are dealing with boiling dye baths and chemicals.
Ventilation is also a very important factor in the dye lab . Make sure he space you are working in is well ventilated by extractor fans and open windows .This will also prevent inhalation of irritable and poisonous fumes .
Chemicals , dyes and dangerous substances should be kept in a safe place away from children at all times. They also should be labeled properly.
Having a First Aid Box or Cabinet is imperative and it should include the minimal of : liquid antiseptic / pain killers/ sterile gauze / sterile cotton / burn cream / band aid
Fire extinguishers should be readily available and placed in obvious places. If you are working in educational establishments staff should be trained and well aware of how to use the fire extinguishers. If you are dyeing at home you can obtain small portable extinguishers to have at hand …. and not at the back of a kitchen cupboard somewhere!That goes for all safety equipment!
Protective aprons should also be used not only to provide protective from chemicals bit also prevent colour from getting on you clothes.
When dyeing at home have utensils that are separate from any used for cooking as dye leaves traces in pans and on spoons that can be dangerous and long term exposure may cause cancer.Use wooden or plastic spoons if possible , these do not conduct heat and are easily soaked in a bleach product to remove any stains . If you are using metal spoons always use a pot holder to stir your dye bath .The handles get extremely hot.
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Dyeing can be very rewarding but you need to vigilant and keep safety in mind at all times.
Safety Measures for Covid 19
It is 2020 ! Corona virus safety is first and foremost on our minds and regulations should be in place in factories, educational establishments and your own homes.If you are teaching establish rules and regulations before students arrive so they come prepared with the correct PPE , disinfectant and their own equipment. If any student shows signs of infection postpone workshop until the proper tests have been proven negative.
Keep gatherings and classes to a minimum , of possible one on one teaching or teaching on line . Wear protective masks at all times .Be careful to use your own personal equipment , cutter, mat , sewing machine etc…. to avoid any possible contamination. Have regular periods to wash hands in accordance to Covid 19 Prevention Regulations.
Keep the rooms well ventilated and if possible windows open .
Disinfect all classroom worktops , door handles ,equipment and personal belongings after the workshop .
Dzignpatch 