Dyeing fabrics, clothes, and who knows what - Why do we do it?

Dyeing for quilting:

I started dyeing fabrics to use in my quilts.  Mainly because I had so much trouble finding the right colors for many of the quilts I was making.  I also don't always want prints or solids.  I like tonal fabrics also referred to as "blenders" or "tone on tone" (usually blends of a single color that runs from light to dark) and those can especially difficult to find in every color you want since fabric, like fashion, is subject to those that create the items.  This year purples may be earthy/warm, whereas 2 years from now you'll find they may be bright/cool.  Invariably, you will search in vain for the color you saw 2 years ago but now it's nowhere to be found.  

Of course, this is often the reason quilters will buy up yards and yards of fabric in that special color/pattern/design that they love so much.  But then it sits on the shelf waiting for the quilter to find the time and that perfect pattern that will need that "must have" fabric.  This is great for those who are blessed with large areas to store their stash.  Their haven from this crazy world. Where they can sit, admire, and "pet" their "pretties".  But for many, this is not an option.  I am somewhere in the middle.  I have some room for "to die for" prints, but not enough room to store all the blenders I want to acquire because of the fear of the fickle whims of color fashion.

Dyeing for fashion:

Who ever wants to walk down the street and see someone wearing the exact same thing?  We've probably all seen the "Who Wore It Best" articles in magazines.  Where the author compares 2 celebrities wearing the same dress/outfit.  Invariably, one celebrity is belittled because they just couldn't pull it off as well as someone else.  Who wants to subject themselves to that?!?  I like to be original when I can.  I think we all do to some extent.  We like the opportunity to express ourselves whether it's done quietly or out loud for all to hear.

Dyeing fabric to be made into clothes, dyeing clothing "blanks" to wear (tshirts, dresses, etc that are made to be dyed), or even dyeing existing clothes (think upcycling, putting new life into that shirt that got stained, or that pair of jeans that is too faded) is a great way to show the world who you are.  "I am me!" "Here I am!" "Good morning, New Day, I'm ready for you!"

Dyeing for fun:

Dyeing fabric is fun for the whole family.  Everyone gets to release their inner creative spirit and see what happens.  No one is too young (okay, babies - toddlers are the exception) or too old.  It's a great way to entertain, create, and make something specific for you or to give as a gift.  Each item is one of a kind!  Sure, you can use the same colors and style but it will never be exactly the same as any other.  So I encourage everyone to grab your gear and let your imagination fly.

If you need inspiration, go on Facebook, You-Tube, Instagram, and more.  There are so many people that share not only their results but also their methods.  But I warn you now, IT CAN BE ADDICTING!