Tie dye shorts are more than just a fashion trend. They are a symbol of creativity, individuality and freedom. Tie dye shorts allow you to express yourself in a colorful and fun way, whether you make them for yourself or for your friends and family. Learn how to tie dye shorts at home with these 25 easy ways to tie dye shorts come with step by step instructions. You can mix and match different Tie dye techniques, patterns and colors to create your unique style of tie-dye shorts.
Tie dye shorts are also versatile and comfortable. You can wear them for any occasion, from casual to formal and pair them with a simple t-shirt, a hoodie, a blouse or a jacket. You can accessorize them with sneakers, sandals, boots or heels. Also, layer them with leggings, tights or jeans for colder days.
Tie dye shorts are not only for summer. They are for all seasons and all ages as timeless piece that never goes out of fashion. They are a way to brighten up your wardrobe and your mood. Tie dye shorts are a statement of who you are and what you love and are more than just clothes. They are art.
Tie dye shorts are easy to make, and you can customize them with your favorite patterns and colors. You only need plain white shorts, fabric dye, rubber bands, gloves, and a plastic bag.
Below, we have shared 25 different ways to tie-dye shorts using various techniques, colors and patterns. It also explains how to tie-dye white cotton shorts and denim shorts with bleach.
How to Tie Dye Shorts: A Complete Guide
Tie dyeing is a simple and fun way to transform plain white shorts into colorful and unique pieces of clothing. You can use different colors, patterns, and techniques to create your own tie dye shorts at home that suit your style and personality. Learn how to tie dye shorts step by step, and get some tips and tricks to make them look amazing.
What You Need to Tie Dye Shorts
Before you start tie dyeing your shorts, you will need to gather some materials and prepare your work area. Here is what you will need:
- A pair of white cotton shorts. You can use any style or size of shorts, but make sure they are made of 100% cotton or at least 50% cotton. Synthetic fabrics like polyester do not absorb the dye well and may result in faded colors. You can also use light-colored shorts, but keep in mind that the dye colors will look different on them. If you want to use dark-colored shorts, you can bleach them first to lighten them up.
- A tie dye kit. You can buy a tie dye kit from a craft store or online, which usually comes with pre-mixed dyes, squeeze bottles, rubber bands, gloves, and instructions. Alternatively, you can make your own tie dye kit by buying fabric dye, soda ash (a fixative that helps the dye bond with the fabric), squeeze bottles, rubber bands, and gloves separately. You can also use natural dyes like turmeric, beetroot, or tea if you want a more eco-friendly option.
- A large plastic container or bucket. You will need this to soak your shorts in soda ash solution before dyeing them. This step is optional but highly recommended, as it will make the colors more vibrant and lasting.
- A large plastic sheet or tarp. You will need this to cover your work surface and protect it from stains. You can also use old newspapers or cardboard instead.
- A plastic bag or wrap. You will need this to wrap your dyed shorts and let them sit for several hours or overnight. This step is important to allow the dye to set into the fabric and prevent it from washing out.
How to Tie Dye Shorts Step by Step
Once you have everything ready, you can start tie dyeing your shorts by following these steps:
- Wash your shorts. Before you dye your shorts, you should wash them with mild detergent and no fabric softener. This will remove any dirt, oil, or starch that may interfere with the dyeing process. Do not dry your shorts after washing them; keep them damp for the next step.
- Soak your shorts in a soda ash solution. If you are using a tie dye kit that comes with soda ash, follow the instructions on the package to prepare the solution. If you are using soda ash separately, dissolve one cup of soda ash in one gallon of warm water in a large plastic container or bucket. Then submerge your damp shorts in the solution and let them soak for 15 to 30 minutes. This will help the dye adhere better to the fabric and prevent fading.
- Wring out your shorts and fold them into a pattern. After soaking your shorts in soda ash solution, wring out the excess water and lay them flat on your work surface. Then fold them into a pattern of your choice. There are many different ways to fold your shorts to create different tie dye effects, such as spiral, crumple, stripe, bullseye, heart, etc. You can find tutorials online for different folding techniques or experiment with your own ideas. The main idea is to create sections of fabric that will be dyed with different colors.
- Secure your folded shorts with rubber bands. Once you have folded your shorts into a pattern, wrap rubber bands around them tightly to hold them in place and create more sections for dyeing. The rubber bands will also act as resistors that will block the dye from reaching some areas of the fabric and create white or lighter-colored patterns.
- Prepare your dyes and squeeze bottles. If you are using a tie dye kit that comes with pre-mixed dyes, simply shake the squeeze bottles well before using them. If you are using fabric dye separately, follow the instructions on the package to mix the dye with water in the squeeze bottles. You can also add some salt or vinegar to the dye solution to enhance the color intensity and fastness.
- Apply the dyes to your folded shorts. Wearing gloves to protect your hands from stains, squeeze the dyes onto your folded shorts section by section according to your color scheme. You can use one color per section or mix and match different colors for a more varied effect. Try to cover the fabric evenly and avoid leaving any white spots. You can also flip your shorts over and apply more dye to the other side if needed.
- Wrap your dyed shorts and let them sit. After you have applied the dye to your shorts, wrap them in a plastic bag or wrap and seal it tightly. This will keep the fabric moist and warm, which will help the dye set into the fibers. Leave your wrapped shorts in a warm place for at least 6 hours or overnight. The longer you let them sit, the more intense and permanent the colors will be.
- Rinse and wash your dyed shorts. After letting your shorts sit for the desired time, unwrap them and remove the rubber bands. Then rinse them under cold running water until the water runs clear. You can also use a mild detergent to help remove any excess dye. Do not wash your dyed shorts with other clothes, as they may bleed and stain them.
- Dry and enjoy your tie dyed shorts. After rinsing and washing your shorts, you can either hang them to air dry or put them in a dryer on low heat. Once they are dry, you can wear them proudly or give them as a gift to someone who loves tie dye! You can also iron your shorts on low heat to smooth out any wrinkles and make them look neater.
Tips and Tricks for Tie Dyeing Shorts
Now, follow these tips and tricks to make your tie dyeing experience easier and more fun:
- Wear old clothes and gloves when tie dyeing, as the dye can stain your skin and clothes.
- Cover your work area with a plastic sheet or tarp to prevent stains on your furniture or floor.
- Use squeeze bottles with narrow tips to apply the dye more precisely and avoid spills.
- Use rubber bands of different sizes and thicknesses to create different patterns and effects on your shorts.
- Experiment with different folding techniques and color combinations to create unique tie dye designs.
- Wash your tie dyed shorts separately or with similar colors for the first few washes, as they may still bleed some dye.
- Store your unused dyes in a cool and dark place for future use.
Tie Dye Shorts Ideas and Inspiration
If you are looking for some tie dye shorts ideas and inspiration, you can check out these tutorials of different tie dye styles and designs. You can use them as it is or modify them to suit your own preferences. Here are some tie dye shorts ideas and pattern for you:
1. Tie Dye Denim Shorts
Hopefully, the jeans stuff is what you can easily tie-dye at home. Take a quick start with these tie-dye jeans shorts sharing the pro tips on quickly and efficiently dyeing the jeans shorts. Star the project by gathering small shorts sections, and next, you can tie it wholly with twine or rubberbands. Next, put it in the jean water mixture, leave for about half an hour, and let the magic begin. The completed bleached jeans shorts will be loved dearly by all. guides
2. Ice Tie Dye Biker Shorts
Are you puzzling at choosing the best gift for bikers at home? Surprise them with this ice dye biker outfit that is sweetly colorful. It will surely rock to fulfill your tie-dye fashion desires, and you can pick the white cotton biker shorts and white cotton t-shirts to do this project with complete ease. You need Tulip Ice Dye One-Step Tie-Dye Kit, ice, plastic bucket or bin, grate or rack, and sealable plastic bag in tie-dye supplies. From taking the small sections of the outfit to rubberband them smartly, you will get instructions for all steps here. tulipcolor
3. Bohemian Wax Tie Dye Shorts
Are you deeply in love with bohemian fashion? So, you will surely get addicted to these bohemian waxed shorts also, another cool tie-dye project that every fashion lover can do at home. Here the project involves giving a lace border to shorts also and is much doable for all beginners. To complete this project, you need Tulip One-Step Tie-Dye, fabric fusion permanent fabric tape, black and white paints, scissors, candle and lace. After you resize your pants to shorts size, you can wax them with a candle. Next, tie-dye and add the lace bottom border. ilovetocreate
4. How to Make a Tie Dye Shorts
Are you puzzling at dyeing the jeans shorts in the right way? Then get here comprehensive instructions bout how to tie-dye them just for perfect results. Here this project does not involve folding and tying the shorts. It is all about applying the dyes directly to the shorts for custom dye patterns. First, take your shorts to size and then apply custom dye colors on them and leave for some time. Rinse with water, and there you go. These shorts will be a great addition to your summer fashion wardrobe and will complete just at the drop of a hat. fashionistanygirl
5. Watermelon Tie Dye Shorts
Watermelons are one of the most loved summer fruit and sometimes feature in summer fashion outfits. So, learn here how to watermelon tie-dye shorts that will look so cool on the legs. The best handmade gift for the style-loving girls, and it will be a total pleasure to whip up these shorts. You need white shorts, Tulip One-Step Tie Dyes in Pink and Green, zip ties, Tulip Glam it UP Crystal in black, heat tool, scissors, plastic surface, a yard of a strip of ribbon, pony beads and backing rack etc to complete these watermelon shorts. ilovetocreate
6. DIY Tie dye Shorts
Bring back the 90s with this easy DIY tie-dye shorts project. With just a tie-dye kit and an old pair of shorts, you can create a fun and stylish ombré effect that will have you feeling nostalgic. Start by bleaching your shorts to make the colors pop, then section them off with rubber bands to make your pattern. The kit comes with everything you need, including individual squeeze bottles for the dye and plastic gloves. Just remember to start with your lightest color first to avoid bleeding, and let the dye sit overnight for best results. Set the dye with vinegar before washing separately a few times. aliciarenee
7. Tie Dye Shorts for Womens
For fashion-loving teen girls, a heart-winning gift will always be a fashion outfit. So, this time win extra love of them with these fashionable tie-dye shorts that are much visually captivating. You can easily duplicate them with the help of provided instructions, and this will be a fun way to do a quick decorative makeover of your old shorts. Grab the white denim shorts, dyes, soda ash, bottles for dye, gloves and trash bag to complete this tie project easily. collegefashion
8. DIY Tie Dye Shorts
Go for a stylish leg exposure this summer season by wearing these rainbow shorts. It will be a perfect way to wear bright colors while addicted to summer shorts that help beat the summer heat in a better way. You need the tie-dye kit, white shorts, some creativity to complete this project. However, you can go for any tie-dye pattern like from stripes to spirals, and results will be amazing in both cases. The project is simple and does not involve any folding and rubberbanding. Just soak your shorts in water, dye and then let dry. popcosmo
9. Bleached Tie Dye Denim Cut Off Shorts
Do you love to cut your jeans off into shorts? However, you can tie-dye them also for a new and updated look. So, if you have got bored with the same denim look of them, then learn how to bleach tie-dye them for a new appeal. Just prep your bleach water solution first. Next, drop the tied shorts in it and leave for some time until you start getting the results. However, you can skip typing the shorts if you want to go for complete color removal. However, you can dye the bleached portion again for some dramatic color effects too. triplemaxtons
10. Tie Dye Rainbow Shorts
Do you love wearing bright and colorful things? So, do you intend to go for a super colorful makeover of your jeans shorts? Then going for a rainbow tie-dye pattern will be above all. Fetch here complete tips and tricks about professional tie-dye denim shorts so they will look amazingly colorful. The given project is straightforward and does not involve tying or folding the jeans shorts. Just place them flat on the metal rack and then start adding stripes of dye in the rainbow colors. Let it dry, and then rinse with water. craftychica
Tie Dye Shirt Patterns: Explore a variety of unique tie dye shirt patterns and techniques to personalize your wardrobe and express your creativity
11. Wigwag Zigzag Tie Dye Summer Shorts
There are different tie-dye folding techniques to go for different tie-dye patterns on your favorite outfits. So, follow the here guides about how to tie-dye your shorts for an excellent wigwag zigzag dye pattern. The project applies to the type of jeans shorts and will be a total pleasure to do also. The project involves gathering the shorts from one leg side in an accordion style, and next, you can rubber band it beautifully. Now start squirting the dyes on it in the zigzag rainbow-striped style. Leave for some time and then rinse with water, and that’s it. One of the best DIY Rainbow Tie Dye Shorts ever.
12. How to Ice Tie Dye Shorts
Are you new to the ice tie-dye method? Don’t know how to do it? Then you must go with this ice tie-dye shorts project to get the whole skill in your hands. Here the project involves using your dyes using the powdered fast dye sachets that you fill in the squirt bottles to apply on the selected fabric items or the jeans shorts. Just roughly gather shorts sections and then rubberband them and start the magical tie-dye process. Just put ice pieces on the folded shorts and then start pouring the dyes on the shorts. Watch this video.
13. Tie Dye a Rainbow Spiral on a Pair of Boxer Style Shorts
Get here instructions about how to tie-dye the shorts for a rainbow spiral tie-dye pattern, and it involves using the soda ash too. Take a section from the center of the shorts and start twisting it around in a spiral way and then rubberband it. Next, place the shorts on the metal rack and start squirting your dyes on it in rainbow colors. Let it dry nicely, and then you can rinse with water to get the amazing spiral dye effect on it. One of the best and quick ways to update your jeans shorts.
14. Easy DIY Tie Dye Shorts
To do tie-dye projects at home will be the best pastime in this pandemic Covid 19 situation. So, follow the guides on how to tie-dye the jeans shorts while using the reverse tie-dye technique. Just take sections of the shorts in the way you like and then rubberband them. Next, prepare the bleach water solutions, but the folded and tied shorts in it for 20-30 minutes, and then let them dry in the sun. Take the rubber bands off and then wash them in the washing machine.
15. How to Tie Dye Shorts
Are you sorting out the best shorts to add to your summer fashion wardrobe? Then try making these tie-dye shorts, sure to bring tons of colors and style to your legs, and they will be a piece of cake to dye also. You can cut any old white jeans pants for shorts, and it will be pretty easy to dye them while following the video tutorial. Just grab your tie-dye kits, get your dyes and then apply the shorts folded and tied in the desired style. The project involves dyeing the shorts in both tied and untied forms.
16. Tie Dye Rainbow Shorts
Once you learn the tie-dye techniques, you will be able to go for any tie-dye project expertly. However, even if you are a little expert in the technique, you can still try making these rainbow tie-dye short pattern that are much visually captivating. The best summer gift to give to a little girl or style-loving teen. However, add these shorts to your summer fashion wardrobe also for some bigger style statements. The final tie-dye pattern will wholly depend on the folding and tying technique.
17. Pink Tie Dye Shorts
Intending to tie-dye shirts for the girls? Then it will be better to go with the pink dye color. So, check out here the crumple pink-dyed shorts that will be a total breeze to whip up with beginner tie-dye skills. Just fold the wet shorts randomly and then rubber band them in the way you like. Start squirting the pink dye on it and complete the entire tie-dye short projects beautifully. The entire project is much doable for all beginners, and completed shorts will make an epic handmade present to a favorite little girl also.
18. Blue Tie Dye Shorts
Are you intending to tie-dye your shoes for some super cool design patterns? Then here is a great design inspiration for you, just fold and tie your shorts in the way you like and then start dyeing them by picking your beautiful dyes. You can go for custom folding techniques to get those custom tie-dye patterns like crumples, bullseyes, rainbow stripes and spirals etc. The whole project is more than easier to complete and will be rocking for beginners. One of the best and quick-to-do DIY tie-dye short project.
19. Marcia Heart Tie Dye Shorts
Sorting out the best Valentine’s Day gift for the favorite persons in the home? Choose the Marcia heart tie-dye shorts to gift to your favorite person. They are just looking mind-blowing and awesome with the lines of hearts and can be made in any dye color. The best romantic shorts to get for your favorite girls and ladies. You have here the freedom to choose the pastel or darker dyes for the project, and the shorts will turn out great in both methods. So, time to beat the summer heat in a lovely way by wearing these shorts, sure to be a big love of all.
20. Shein Girls Knotted Front Tie Dye Shorts
When it comes to tie-dyeing shorts, you can go wild with the colors. Peek into details of these knotted front tie-dye short pattern that are just looking amazing and super beautiful and are quite easy to tie-dye by going with the easy folds. Just take the sections of the shorts, twist and rubberband and then start pouring the dyes. Let the shorts dry completely after getting dyed, and finally, you can wash them for a neat look and appeal. The project will be much doable for all beginners and complete just at the drop of a hat.
21. Black Tie Dye Shorts
In the case of darker shorts, use the reverse tie-dye technique to get some enchanting dye patterns on them. Get inspired by these black tie-dye shorts that have been bleached for a cool dye effect. However, they will be a total pleasure to bleach tie-dye at home even if you are not skilled enough in the technique. Just for a custom folding of shorts, and then apply the bleach solution. For complete or extra dye removal, you can put the dyed shorts in the bleach water solution.
22. Tie Dye Biker Shorts
Win the bikers’ hearts in the home by giving these visually captivating and super colorful tie-dye short. Just tie the shorts for amazing heart burst, floral, spiral or bullseyes tie-dye patterns and then pour your favorite dye colors on them. This will help achieve a fabulously colorful appeal of the shorts. Look at the given tie-dye biker short, looking just amazing in the final tie-dyed look. They feature amazing tie-dye patterns and will bring a great style to your legs.
23. Rainbow Shorts For Ladies
Win the heart of all the ladies by making these lovely rainbow shoes for them. They are emerging with a beautiful rainbow dye print that will enchant all the onlookers for sure. However, you can take the white shorts for this rainbow tie-dye effect, and you can also go with any folding and tying technique to complete the project. The shorts are much visually captivating and will also make an epic handmade present to a favorite person or kid. Try out this project with your favorite rainbow colors, and completed shorts will never get out of style also.
24. How To Make Tie Dye Shorts
Satisfy your lust for amazing tie-dye fashion by making these tie-dye shorts that are much visually captivating and graceful. Here the red and blue colors are used for a brilliant tie-dye effect on the shorts, and you will complete these short while going with a custom folding technique. The project is sure to be beginner-friendly and budget-friendly, and completed shorts will b a great addition to one’s wardrobe or closet. Willing to try out your newly learned tie-dye techniques? Then this tie-dye shorts project will just be amazing to choose from in this case. Everyone can do this project with quite ease.
25. Tie Dyed Shorts For Your Kings
Check out here one of the most beautiful tie-dye shorts. With a single color dye effect, they grab much attention of the onlookers. However, completing these shorts will be a smart way to add fun to your summer fashion. The pattern is totally easy to complete and will also bring a big wow factor to the user’s legs. However, you can pick your dye colors for the project. The project will be a great way also to learn all about the bleach tie-dye technique. However, you can bleach the shorts and then dye again for some brilliant tie-dye patterns.
Related Tie Dye Patterns:
Discover the vibrant world of tie dye patterns and techniques to create one-of-a-kind designs for all occasions. Make a splash with an eye-catching, personalized look!
- How to Tie Dye Socks: Transform ordinary socks into colorful masterpieces with our simple guide on how to tie dye socks for a stylish and unique look.
- Galaxy Tie Dye Patterns: Create mesmerizing galaxy tie dye patterns with our step-by-step tutorial, bringing cosmic beauty to your fabric art projects.
- Ice Tie Dye Techniques: Explore easy ice tie dye techniques for stunning, intricate designs with our easy-to-follow guide that’s perfect for creative fabric adventures.
- Bullseye Tie Dye Tutorials: Master the eye-catching bullseye tie dye pattern with our comprehensive tutorials, adding vibrant, concentric circles to your textile projects.
- Pastel Tie Dye Patterns: Discover soft, dreamy pastel tie dye patterns with our expert instructions, perfect for adding a delicate touch to your fabric creations.
- Shibori Tie Dye Techniques: Delve into the art of tie dye Shibori techniques with our detailed guide, achieving traditional Japanese-inspired textile patterns.
- How to Reverse Tie Dye: Learn how to reverse tie dye for a striking, contrasting effect on your fabric projects with our informative and easy-to-follow tutorial.
- Heart Tie Dye Tutorials: Spread love and creativity with our awesome heart tie dye tutorials, crafting stunning, heartfelt designs on your favorite garments and textiles.
Conclusion:
Tie dyeing is a fun and easy way to transform plain white shorts into colorful and unique pieces of clothing. You can use different colors, patterns, and techniques to create your own tie dye shorts at home with just a few materials and steps. Tie dyeing is also a great activity to do with friends or family, as you can share ideas and have fun together. Tie dyeing is not only a creative hobby but also a way to express yourself and show off your personality.
We hope these 25 unique ideas give you inspiration and guidance on how to tie dye shorts at home. Happy tie dyeing!