Tie dye spiral patterns have been a staple in fashion for decades. The vibrant colors and unique designs make them a favorite among people of all ages. The process of creating a tie dye spiral pattern is both fun and rewarding. Watching the colors blend and merge to create a unique design is mesmerizing. Learn how to do spiral tie dye with our step by step pattern. Also, find 20 easy tie dye spiral patterns for beginners.
The beauty of tie dye spiral patterns lies in their uniqueness. No two patterns are ever the same, making each piece truly unique. Creating a tie dye spiral pattern involves twisting and folding the fabric in a specific way before applying the dye. The result is a stunning spiral design that is both eye-catching and captivating.
Tie dye spiral patterns have the power to inspire creativity and self-expression. They encourage us to embrace individuality and express ourselves through clothing. Whether you’re wearing a tie dye t-shirt or a tie dye dress, you’re making a statement about who you are and what you stand for. Tie dye spiral patterns are more than just a fashion trend; they’re a symbol of freedom and self-expression.

How to Do Spiral Tie Dye: A Complete Guide
Tie dyeing is a fun and creative way to transform plain fabric into colorful and eye-catching patterns. One of the most popular and classic tie dye patterns is the spiral, which creates a swirl of colors on your fabric. Learn how to do spiral tie dye step by step, from preparing your fabric and dye to rinsing and washing your finished project. You will also learn some tips and tricks to make your spiral tie dye look amazing.
What You Need for Spiral Tie Dye
To do spiral tie dye, you will need the following materials and supplies:
- A white or light-colored fabric item made of 100% cotton, such as a T-shirt, sweatshirt, pillowcase, or tote bag. Cotton is the best fabric for tie dyeing because it absorbs the dye well and produces vibrant colors.
- Fiber-reactive dye in assorted colors. Fiber-reactive dye is a type of dye that bonds with the fibers of the fabric, making it more durable and fade-resistant than other types of dye. You can buy fiber-reactive dye in powder or liquid form or use a tie dye kit that comes with pre-mixed dye in squeeze bottles.
- Soda ash (optional). Soda ash is a chemical that helps the dye adhere to the fabric better and prevents it from washing out. Some tie dye kits include soda ash, or you can buy it separately and soak your fabric in it before dyeing.
- Rubber bands or strong string. You will need these to tie your fabric into a spiral shape and create sections for different colors.
- Squeeze bottles or plastic cups and spoons. You will need these to apply the dye to your fabric. If you are using a tie dye kit, you can use the squeeze bottles that come with it. If you are using powder or liquid dye, you can mix it with water in squeeze bottles or plastic cups and use spoons to apply it.
- Plastic tablecloths or large trash bags. You will need these to protect your work surface from stains and spills.
- Wire rack (optional). You can use this to elevate your fabric off the work surface and allow the excess dye to drip off.
- Gloves and a dust mask. You will need these to protect your hands from stains and your lungs from inhaling the dye powder.
- Zip-top bags or plastic wrap. You will need these to cover your fabric after dyeing and let it set for 24 hours.
How to Do Spiral Tie Dye Step by Step
Once you have gathered all your materials and supplies, you are ready to do spiral tie dye. Follow these steps to create a beautiful spiral pattern on your fabric.
Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric
The first step is to prepare your fabric for dyeing. If your fabric is new, wash it with laundry detergent to remove any dirt or coatings that might prevent the dye from absorbing well. If your fabric is old, make sure it is clean and free of stains.
Next, decide where you want the center of your spiral to be on your fabric. It can be anywhere you like, such as the middle, the corner, or the side. Pinch the fabric at that point with your thumb and index finger.
Step 2: Twist Your Fabric
The next step is to twist your fabric into a spiral shape. To do this, simply rotate your hand, like turning a key, until the fabric starts to gather into a disk. You can also use a fork to help you twist the fabric by placing it on top of the pinched point and twirling it between your fingers.
Keep twisting until you have twisted all of the fabric into a tight disk. Then, use your other hand to tuck any loose edges or corners under the disk.
Step 3: Tie Your Fabric
The next step is to tie your fabric with rubber bands or string. This will create sections for different colors and hold the spiral shape in place.
Wrap three or four rubber bands or strings around the disk in different directions, making sure they cross at the center of the spiral. You can also wrap more rubber bands or strings around the disk if you want more sections or smaller sections.
Step 4: Soak Your Fabric (Optional)
The next step is optional, but it can help improve the quality of your tie dye. If you have soda ash, you can soak your fabric in it before applying the dye.
Soda ash is a chemical that helps the fiber-reactive dye bond with the cotton fibers better and prevents it from washing out easily. It also makes the colors more vibrant and crisp.
To soak your fabric in soda ash, mix one cup of soda ash with water in a large bucket or tub, following the instructions on the package. Then, submerge your fabric in the solution and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. After that, wring out the excess solution and proceed to the next step.
If you don’t have soda ash, you can skip this step and go straight to applying the dye. However, keep in mind that your colors may not be as bright or lasting as they would be with soda ash.
Step 5: Apply the Dye
The next step is to apply the dye to your fabric. This is where you can get creative and experiment with different colors and combinations.
You will need squeeze bottles or plastic cups and spoons to apply the dye. If you use a tie dye kit, you can use the squeeze bottles that come with it. If you are using powder or liquid dye, you can mix it with water in squeeze bottles or plastic cups, following the instructions on the package.
Before you apply the dye, protect your work surface with a plastic tablecloth or large trash bags. You can also use a wire rack to elevate your fabric off the work surface and allow the excess dye to drip off.
To apply the dye, squeeze or spoon it onto the sections of your fabric that you created with rubber bands or string. You can use one color per section, or mix different colors within a section for a more blended effect. You can also leave some sections white for contrast.
Make sure to apply enough dye to saturate the fabric, but not so much that it drips or pools. You want the dye to penetrate all the layers of your fabric, but not mix too much with other colors.
Flip your fabric over and repeat the process on the other side, matching the colors on both sides.
Step 6: Let It Set
The next step is to let your fabric set for 24 hours. This will allow the dye to react with the fabric and create permanent colors.
To let your fabric set, cover it with a zip-top bag or plastic wrap and place it in a warm and dark place, such as a closet or a cabinet. Do not disclose it to sunlight or heat sources, as this may affect the color outcome.
Leave your fabric covered for 24 hours, or longer if you want more intense colors.
Step 7: Rinse and Wash
The final step is to rinse and wash your fabric. This will remove any excess dye that did not bond with the fabric and prevent it from bleeding or fading.
To rinse and wash your fabric, follow these steps:
- Put on gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself from stains and inhalation.
- Rinse your fabric under cold running water until the water runs clear. Wait to untie your fabric.
- Untie your fabric and rinse it again under cold running water until the water runs clear.
- Wash your fabric in a washing machine with hot water and regular detergent. Do not wash it with other items, as it may stain them.
- Dry your fabric in a dryer on high heat, or hang it to air dry.
Tips and Tricks for Spiral Tie Dye
Here are some tips and tricks to make your spiral tie dye look amazing:
- Experiment with different colors and combinations. You can use complementary colors, such as purple and yellow, for contrast; analogous colors, such as blue and green, for harmony; or rainbow colors for variety.
- Experiment with different sizes and shapes of spirals. You can make small or large spirals, or multiple spirals on one fabric item. You can also make different shapes of spirals, such as hearts, stars, or flowers.
- Try different placements of spirals. You can make spirals in the center of your fabric item, or in different corners or sides. You can also make spirals off-center for a more asymmetrical look.
- Try different techniques of applying dye. You can apply dye in stripes, dots, swirls, or splatters. You can also use brushes, sponges, or spray bottles for different effects.
- Have fun and enjoy the process. Tie dyeing is a fun and creative activity that you can do alone or with friends and family. You can make unique and personalized items that reflect your style and personality.
Spiral Tie Dye Ideas and Inspiration
Now that you know how to do spiral tie dye, you may be wondering what colors and combinations to use for your project. There are endless possibilities for creating stunning spiral patterns with different colors and techniques. Here are some ideas and inspiration to get you started.
Rainbow Spiral Tie Dye
The rainbow spiral tie dye is a classic and colorful design that always stays in style. To create a rainbow spiral tie dye, you will need six colors of dye: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. You will also need three rubber bands to divide your fabric into six sections or wedges.
To create a rainbow spiral tie dye, follow these steps:
- Fold and tie your fabric into a spiral shape as described in the previous section.
- Apply red dye in section 1.
- Apply orange dye in section 2.
- Apply yellow dye in section 3.
- Apply green dye in section 4.
- Apply blue dye in section 5.
- Apply purple dye in section 6.
- Flip your fabric over and repeat the process on the other side, matching the colors on both sides.
- Let it set, rinse, and wash as described in the previous section.
The result is a bright and cheerful spiral tie dye that will make you smile every time you wear it.
Monochrome Spiral Tie Dye
The monochrome spiral tie dye is a simple and elegant design that uses only one color of dye. You can choose any color you like, such as black, white, gray, or navy. You will also need three rubber bands to divide your fabric into six sections or wedges.
To create a monochrome spiral tie dye, follow these steps:
- Fold and tie your fabric into a spiral shape, as described in the previous section.
- Apply your chosen color of dye in all six sections, making sure to saturate the fabric well.
- Flip your fabric over and repeat the process on the other side, using the same color of dye.
- Let it set, rinse, and wash as described in the previous section.
The result is a sophisticated and stylish spiral tie dye that will go with any outfit.
Ombre Spiral Tie Dye
The ombre spiral tie dye is a trendy and modern design that uses different shades of the same color to create a gradient effect. You can choose any color you like, such as pink, blue, or green. You will also need three rubber bands to divide your fabric into six sections or wedges.
To create an ombre spiral tie dye, follow these steps:
- Fold and tie your fabric into a spiral shape, as described in the previous section.
- Mix your chosen color of dye with water in three different squeeze bottles or plastic cups, creating three different shades: light, medium, and dark.
- Apply the lightest shade of dye in sections 1 and 4.
- Apply the medium shade of dye in sections 2 and 5.
- Apply the darkest shade of dye in sections 3 and 6.
- Flip your fabric over and repeat the process on the other side, matching the shades on both sides.
- Let it set, rinse, and wash as described in the previous section.
The result is a gorgeous and chic spiral tie dye that will make you stand out from the crowd.
1. Woodstock Tie Dye Spiral Shirt

We can see tie and dye now again trending everywhere. Have you ever thought about dying your shirt yourself? If not, you can surely do it effortlessly and efficiently with this plan. No doubt, this craft would be the best revamp for your old T-shirt. Ideally, you can also choose this project for the kid’s shirts. For this, you will need a Woodstock tie and dye kit, white t-shirt, tie and dye party kit and rubber bands. All you need to do is tie the shirt in the desired pattern using rubber bands before painting. swagbucks
2. Spiral Tie Dye Tote Bag

Well, tie and dye crafts are not limited only to the shirts. You can also consider it for the tote bag. For sure, you would love to give a completely new look to your old tote with this fun activity. You can also go for this craft for a new bag, not only for the old bags. You would love to carry out and bring vegetables or other stuff in this super-stylish tote. So, make it using a simple tote bag, tie and dye kit, rubber bands, plastic squeeze bottle, shallow dish and latex gloves. thepioneerwoman
3. Sharpie Spiral Tie Dye Shoes

Have you ever tried to dye your shoes yourself? If not, you can surely consider dying your shoes yourself for the following summer festive party with this idea. You don’t need to put in too much time and effort for this project. If you are new to this activity, you can also get the step-by-step guidelines from the tutorial. Make sure to clean your shoes properly before dying. So, you can get smooth results. For this, you will need colorful sharpie markers, plain water, canvas shoes, a spray bottle, masking tape and rubbing alcohol. funlovingfamilies
4. Spiral Tie Dye T Shirt Pattern

Do you want to print the custom colors and combinations on your t-shirt? If yes, nothing would be a better option than dying your shirt with the festive colors. For sure, it would be a super easy tie and dye project for beginners. Once you have understood the proper steps of this craft, it’s pretty easy to get the desired results. The things you will need for this project include a white cotton shirt, rubber bands, squeeze bottle, a Ziploc bag and a fork. chaoticallyyours
5. Make a Spiral Tie dye T shirt

Learn to dye your shirt in a spiral pattern with this super creative and easy idea. For sure, it would be the best dying project for the crafters of all levels. However, beginners can also get help from the tutorial to complete this craft effortlessly. At the end of this craft, you will surely get your hand on a personalized t-shirt. If you also want to dye a shirt, you will need a tie and dye kit, squeeze bottles, rubber bands and clothespins to hang the shirt on the wire. qq studio
6. 4th of July Spiral Tie Dye Pattern

Do you want to celebrate the 4th of July in a wholly new and unique way? If yes, you will surely adore customizing your shirt with tie and dye for this Patriotic Day celebration. Ideally, this craft activity will not take too much time and effort. You can consider working on it even on the day of celebration. Not only for you, but you can also dye the shirts for your friends effortlessly and efficiently. The basic needed supplies for this craft are a white cotton shirt, fabric paints or markers, a traditional clothespin and rubber bands. lacrema
7. Swirl Tie Dye Design

Learn to tie and dye the shirt in no time and effort with this idea. All you need to do is pop the colors on the shirt. Once the shirt has dried, you are all set to wear it for a festive look. For this, the needed supplies and materials are a bucket of water, tulip tie and dye, squeeze bottles, rubber bands, plastic table cloth, metal rack, rubber gloves, Apron, zip lock bag and sharpie. Make sure to wash or rinse off the shirt with plain water once the paint has dried. theneonteaparty
8. Spiral Tie Dye Hoodie

Tie and dye projects are not only for summer clothes. You can also consider this coloring project for winter clothes. If you are looking for an idea, you can consider this dying project for your winter hoodie. Even if you have a basic know-how of dying, you can effortlessly get your hand on this craft. This project’s basic needed supplies and materials are a white hooded sweatshirt, baking rack, tie and dye kit, trash bags, rubber bands, and gloves. chaoticallyyours
9. Spiral Tie Dye Sweatshirts

Revamp the look of your old sweatshirt with this super easy and creative tie and dye project. Ideally, you can also choose this craft for the girl’s shirts. For sure, you would love to add more personality to your clothes with this super creative craft. Make sure to have the right equipment if you want to dye your sweatshirt. So, you can end up this task efficiently. For this, you will require tie and dye squeeze bottles, rubber bands, safety pins, large zip lock bags, safety pins and table coverings. theneonteaparty
10. Double Spiral Tie Dye Shirt

Learn to tie and dye your shirt in the double spiral pattern with this idea. If you have already worked on the single spiral tie and dye, it would be super easy for you to complete this craft. You can choose this craft for the kids and also elders shirts, especially in the summer season. This craft’s basic needed supplies and materials are a white cotton shirt, a fork, tie and dye kit, rubber bands, a water bucket, and gloves. upanddyed
11. Rainbow Spiral Tie Dye T Shirt

Do you want to add funky or rainbow colors to your t-shirt? If yes, you don’t need to put in too much time and effort for this activity. Ideally, you can consider crafting this shirt for people of all age groups. Not only for you, but you can also choose a dying project for gifting the colorful shirts to your friends. The things you will need for this project include a white cotton shirt, a water bucket, soda ash, cling film, clothes peg, funnel, gloves, measuring jug, squirty bottle, elastic bands and a non-bio detergent. handprinted
12. Spiral Tie dye Technique

Do you want to learn the tie and dye technique? If yes, you can surely give a completely new look to your shirt with this plan. You would love to put a twist on your shirt by crafting the spiral in different patterns. For sure, you would love the winding effects on your shirt. This project’s basic supplies and materials are soda ash, a white cotton shirt, rubber bands, gloves, a tie and dye kit, a water bucket, and a mermaid tie and dye kit. tiedyeyoursummer
13. Swirl Tie Dye Shirt

Make a super cool and festive tie and dye shirt for you and your friend with these step-by-step guidelines and instructions. Ideally, you can give a customized look to your t-shirts. The best thing is that you can alter the look of this shirt whenever you want by changing the colors or patterns. The things you will need for this project include a white cotton shirt, tie and dye colors, plastic spoons, plastic cup, a water bucket, rubber bands, detergent and a powder packet. instructables
14. How to Ice Dye Spiral

Do you know about the ice dyeing technique? If not, you can get the complete details about this technique with this idea. You would love to color in the desired pattern to your shirts and sweatshirts with this super creative dying idea. The best thing is that you don’t need to do anything extra and daunting to get the flaunting patterns on the shirts. All you need to do is put the ice cube on the shirt and sprinkle the dye powder on it. Once the ice has melted, the powder will automatically create a beautiful pattern on the shirt. Doesn’t it sound cool? Of course, yes!
How to Tie Dye Socks: Master the art of creating stunning tie dye socks with our simple, step-by-step guide and unleash your inner creativity.
15. How to Rubber Band Spiral Tie Dye

Summer is almost there! It’s the right time to give a completely new look to your old attire or shirt with this spiral tie and dye technique. Ideally, you don’t need to put too much time and effort into getting your hand on this shirt. You can complete this project by utilizing the already available goodies around you. This craft’s needed materials and supplies are rubber bands, a plain water bucket, cookie cooling rack, bowl water, tank top, clothes drying rack, and old towels. Moreover, you can also use the fork instead of the rubber band to get the spiral pattern on the shirt. thesisterproject
16. Mandala Tie Dye Pattern with Rubber Bands

Do you have a tulip tie and dye kit in your collection? If yes, you can give a new look to your old tank top or shirt with this Mandala tie-dye technique. No doubt, it’s the same to get this pattern on the shirt as other dying patterns. However, you have to choose the colors and combinations according to the Mandala technique. For this, the needed supplies are a water bucket, a white cotton shirt, rubber bands, squeeze bottles, scissors, a thread to wrap around the shirt and a zip lock bag. tiedyeyoursummer
17. Unique Tie Dye Swirl Technique

Are you looking for festive and colorful clothes for your little girls? If yes, you don’t need to waste your money on expensive tops and shirts. You can give a new and attractive look to your kid’s clothes in no time and effort with this tie-dye swirl technique. Not only for the kid’s shirts, but you can also go for it to dye the elder’s tops and shirts. The needed supplies and materials for this project are a one-step tie and dye kit, a white cotton kid’s shirt, rubber bands, squirty bottles, a bucket, water tub, gloves, and a wire for hanging the shirts. diybeautify
18. Single Color Spiral Tie Dye Pattern

Do you love the purple tie-dye hues? If yes, you would surely love to get or craft these hues on your T-shirt. Not only for the t-shirt, but you can also choose this spiral pattern on the tank tops and sweatshirts according to your styling needs. For this, you don’t need to go to any shop or shirt printer. You can get these hues on your shirt yourself by following this tutorial plan’s guidelines and instructions. The basic required things for this craft are a white cotton shirt, tie-dye kit, a fork, rubber bands and a wire to hang the shirt.
Reverse Tie Dye Patterns: Add a unique touch to your clothes with these easy reverse tie dye patterns. Easy-to-follow instructions are included.
19. Black and White Spiral Tie Dye Pattern

The Black and white spiral pattern looks adorable on the kids and also elder’s shirts. If you also want to get this pattern on your shirt, you can surely get it yourself by watching the video plan. Ideally, this tutorial includes all the essential guidelines and instructions to complete this craft project like a pro. Once you have understood all the steps, you need to collect the supplies and start working on a black and white tie-dye pattern. The needed materials for this project are the desired shirt, black and white tie-dye kit, a water tube, a bucket and rubber bands.
20. Circle Tie Dye Designed

Circle tie-dye pattern looks more attractive and fascinating on the kids’ shirts. However, you can also consider it for the elders according to their dressing or styling sense. Moreover, girls can also wear these customized and patterned shirts, especially in the summer season. No doubt, this shirt gives a complete festive look for any event. So, make this pattern using a tie-dye kit, a water bucket, rubber bands, water and a round object.
Tips and Tricks for a Successful Spiral Tie Dye
Spiral tie dye is a fun and easy technique, but getting the perfect spiral shape and color distribution can also be tricky. Follow tips and tricks that help you achieve a successful spiral tie dye.
- Start with a damp fabric. After washing your fabric, spin it in your washing machine or squeeze out the excess water. A damp fabric is easier to twist and fold than a dry or wet one.
- Fold on a smooth and flat surface. Use a table or a hardwood floor to fold your fabric into a spiral shape. Avoid working on carpet, grass, or concrete, as they may create too much friction and prevent you from twisting the fabric evenly.
- Make sure your folds are uniform. As you twist your fabric, keep the folds at a fairly uniform height. They tend to get bigger towards the edges if you let them, which may result in uneven dyeing.
- Use enough rubber bands or string. Wrap three or four rubber bands or string around your fabric disk to create sections for different colors. Please make sure they are tight enough to hold the shape, but not too tight to cut off the circulation of the dye.
- Apply enough dye to saturate the fabric. Use squeeze bottles or plastic cups and spoons to apply the dye to your fabric sections. Make sure to apply enough dye to penetrate all the layers of the fabric, but not so much that it drips or pools. You want the dye to reach the inner folds, but not mix too much with other colors.
- Flip your fabric over and repeat the process on the other side. After applying the dye on one side of your fabric disk, flip it over and apply the same colors on the other side. Try to match the colors on both sides as much as possible for a symmetrical spiral pattern.
- Let it set for 24 hours or longer. Cover your fabric with a zip-top bag or plastic wrap and place it in a warm and dark place for 24 hours or longer. This will allow the dye to react with the fabric and create permanent colors. The longer you let it set, the more intense the colors will be.
- Rinse and wash your fabric properly. Rinse your fabric under cold running water until the water runs clear. Wait to untie your fabric. Then, untie your fabric and rinse it again under cold running water until the water runs clear. Wash your fabric in a washing machine with hot water and regular detergent. Do not wash it with other items, as it may stain them. Dry your fabric in a dryer on high heat, or hang it to air dry.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful and successful spiral tie dye that will impress everyone who sees it. Have fun and enjoy your spiral tie dye! 😍
Related Tie Dye Patterns
Tie dye patterns are not just for hippies. Discover how to create stunning designs with these easy tutorials and tips.
- Tie Dye Shoes: Bring some color to your wardrobe with this easy-to-follow guide on how to tie dye shoes! Add a unique, vibrant look that’ll make all your friends jealous.
- Bleach Tie Dye: Transform your wardrobe with a splash of color! Learn how to create stunning tie-dye designs using bleach in just 3 simple steps.
- Tie Dye Shirts: Elevate your wardrobe with these captivating tie dye shirt tutorials, and learn to create stylish, colorful tees in no time.
- Rainbow Tie Dye: Brighten your day with our easy rainbow tie dye guide, featuring simple techniques for creating stunning, multi-colored patterns on fabric.
- DIY Face Mask Tie Dye: Stay safe and stylish with step-by-step instructions for creating eye-catching tie dye face mask designs.
- Tie Dye Sweatpants: Personalize your loungewear with these innovative tie dye sweatpant techniques, perfect for cozy days and casual wear.
- Tie Dye Sweatshirts: Discover how to create fashionable, custom tie dye sweatshirt patterns that showcase your creativity and individuality.
Conclusion:

Spiral tie dye is a fun and easy way to create beautiful patterns on fabric. By following this guide, you will learn how to do spiral tie dye step by step, from preparing your fabric and dye to rinsing and washing your finished project. You will also learn some tips and tricks to make your spiral tie dye look amazing.
Tie dyeing is a great way to tie dyeing is a great way to express your creativity and make unique and colorful items. You can tie dye all kinds of fabric items, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, pillowcases, or tote bags. You can also give them as gifts or sell them online or at craft fairs.
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to do spiral tie dye. And if you want to learn more about tie dyeing, check out our other patterns on this topic.
Happy tie dyeing! 🌈