It’s still a couple of weeks before summer gets into full swing, but we better be ready when it comes! Beijing summer is usually hot and dry, but we can make it cool with our easy project. We got help from the boisterous youngsters of Swiss School Beijing: (opposite page from left to right) Jane, Edmund, and Emet. Teacher Cecile Ottiger (second from left) told beijingkids the t-shirts would certainly make a mark in the summer: we’re using colorful permanent markers instead of the usual dye – and that will make it faster to finish the project.
After finishing the t-shirts, the kids surprised us with an impromptu performance with their ukuleles and guitars! We loved how the summery clothing added flair to their mini-concert.
Note: The project takes about 20 minutes to finish. Parental supervision is also required since we’ll use rubbing alcohol in the project. Also, do the project in a well-ventilated area.
Materials
Permanent markers (like Sharpies); cotton-based cloth items like t-shirts, socks, shoelaces or dish towels; rubber bands; eye droppers; cups; and 94 percent alcohol.
Step 1
To make your designs, stretch the cotton over the mouth of a jar or cup and secure it with rubber bands.
Step 2
Use permanent markers to make several patterns of colored dots on the stretched cotton.
Step 3
Using eye droppers with rubbing alcohol, slowly drip a drop onto the spots of color until the alcohol starts to soak outward, carrying the ink with it.
Step 4
Allow your design to dry. And make more patterns! But remember, don’t expose the project to heat until it’s dry as rubbing alcohol and its fumes are flammable.
Step 5
Now you can wear your tie-dyed shirt with the gang!
Photos: Dave’s Studio
This article appeared on p28-29 of beijingkids April 2018 issue
