Great for many direct application techniques; screen printing, stamping, stenciling, block printing, to name a few. Can be used to create Batik-like effects. It can also be applied with a Gutta applicator or a brush. Often used in "Breakdown Printing" processes where the partial erosion of the resist is desirable.
Corn Dextrin is used by fabric dyers and textile surface designers to produce a range of resist effects that are almost impossible to get using other products. It is a bit more complex than other water soluble resists and there are some things you should be aware of when using it with Fiber Reactive dyes.
Dextrins have been known to discharge (remove) Fiber Reactive dye color with prolonged exposure; if this is not something you want, you will need to test the product with your dye color. These products may also shrink during drying causing fabrics to pucker or curl.
Again, always test before embarking on a large project.
Instructions for Corn Dextrin Resists for surface design
(Please read all directions before beginning)
You will need:
3 cups corn dextrin to 2 cups (500ml) water, and sifter or wire whisk.
For best results, before you begin, scour (pre-wash) your fabric in HOT water with Dharma Dyer's Detergent and Soda Ash. Utensils or ingredients used for dying should never be used for food preparation.
1. Bring water to a boil.
2. While stirring, sprinkle dextrin into boiling water slowly, continuing to stir until completely dissolved.
3. Transfer dissolved mixture into separate container and allow to cool SLOWLY as the mixture thickens during the cooling period. Using a plastic container covered with plastic wrap to prevent a "skin" from forming or in a double boiler set-up let the mixture cool to about 80º F (Correct consistency should be the same as a thick soup).
4. As mixture is cooling you can prepare your fabric for the dextrin and/or dye application either by stretching it on a frame or taping it to your plastic covered work surface.
5. You can make resist lines or dots with a squeeze bottle, stencil it on or stamp it on with block prints or any tool that makes a mark.
6. Let the dextrin mixture dry completely on your fabric. The fabric can loosened up when you apply the dextrin, so tighten it up again before or while it dries. Drying can take awhile, depending on how thickly you applied it. You may now apply your thickened Fiber Reactive Dye paint (use our Cold Batch method directions) using a roller, spatula, squeegee, foam brush, etc.
IMPORTANT: This dextrin has the potential to discharge some fiber reactive dye colors. To avoid this you can either double the strength of the dye or add a double ration of LUDIGOL to your dye chemical water.
7. After the desired effect is achieved, and the dye is properly batched or cured, rinse off the excess dye in cold water. To remove the resist you may need to soften it first by soaking the coated fabric in warm water. Rinse and repeat, gradually changing from warm to hot water using Dharma Dyer's Detergent, until all the resist dissolves and the water is clear.
TIP: If re-using leftover dextrin that has been stored in a refrigerator (in an airtight container), re-heat it in a double boiler or microwave (high for ~ 1 min.) to the thick soup consistency again, using a whisk to stir the mixture thoroughly before applying to your fabric.
