Also known as "China Silk", these lightweight and breezy blank Habotai scarves are the most popular for dyeing and painting, probably because they are the most economical of all the silks. That also makes these very popular with teachers for class projects, Mother's day gifts, etc. Silk painting instructors often choose these for their student's first projects. The price is right for big fund raisers too! They make the perfect weight scarf for summer wear. "Playsilks" are very popular with the kids right now, and these are what are usually used. These have hand rolled hems with 100% silk thread. Ready to dye and paint!
We also have a few sizes in black, by popular demand. They look great when used with some of our more opaque or metallic fabric paints or the foils. Some folks use them with discharge techniques too. Just keep in mind that there is never a guarantee that a black will always discharge, because especially with imported stuff, the dye they are using can change. Also, the color you get when you discharge can vary widely, from a light tan to a dark rust brown. Always best to test if you want to discharge a black garment or fabric.
We recommend, especially if you are re-selling, to pre-wash in Hot water and Synthrapol or our Professional Textile Detergent, all silk before dyeing or painting to remove any leftover residue from the silk worms (Seracin) or finger prints and other stuff that can cause the fabric to dye unevenly. Our product Milsoft is excellent for restoring the soft hand to silk after dyeing.
