Also Need:
Unfinished Wood in Diamond Shape
Measuring Cups
Iron
Measure and cut canvas fabric to 30”x32”, adding 6-8 inches to the height and width to stretch over canvas frame.
Carefully accordion fold canvas fabric back and forth, making sure your pleats are nice and neat.
Use an iron to set the folds.
Fold one end into a small right triangle, then fold back following the base of the triangle. Continue to accordion fold to create an isosceles triangle stack.
To create the dye resist, sandwich canvas fabric between two wood blocks and clamps. Experiment with different shapes to create variations in pattern. Set aside.
Following the Rit Dye Color Formula for Garden Snake, mix ¼ cup Dark Green, 2 tbsp Emerald and 2 tbsp Apple Green in 3 gallons of hot water. The water should ideally be 140ºF. If tap water is not hot enough, heat water on the stove and add to the dyebath.
Remember to shake your dyes before using.
Add a cup of salt and mix until it’s fully dissolved.
Test color with a paper towel. If color is too light, add more dye. If it’s too dark, add more water. Remember the color will look lighter when fully dry.
Once you’re happy with the color, dip your bound canvas into the dyebath for 20 minutes— or until desired color is achieved.
To rinse, place bound canvas in a Rit ColorStay Dye Fixative bath immediately after dyeing and before washing. This helps to enhance the color, increases color retention, and prevents dye from bleeding into white areas.
Rinse in cool water until water begins to run clear. Carefully remove clamps and wood blocks.
Unfold to reveal your dyed canvas and let it dry completely.
When dry, iron out any wrinkles for a smooth surface.
Fit together the stretcher bars to assemble the canvas frame.
Lay canvas frame on top of the dyed canvas, make sure the front of the dyed canvas is facing down and the backside is facing up.
Stretch canvas over the top bar and secure with one staple in the center. Stretch canvas over the bottom bar and secure with one staple in the center. Repeat on left and right side of frame. When satisfied with placement, continue to stretch, and staple the canvas onto the frame.
When you reach the corner, fold fabric around the corner and stretch towards the inside of the frame. Secure with staple.
Hang to enjoy your masterpiece!