Depends on what you mean by ‘Bad’.
I tend to dye large quantities of yarn or fiber at a time so I’ll mix up 1/2 gallon batches of each color. Most of the time, there will be some dye left over.
Dyed Suri Alpaca
As it sits in the bottle, things happen. Some colors, like Kelly Green will develop big blobs of weirdness. Others will separate and dye particles fall to the bottom. Still other colors completely change. Olive Green, for instance. I didn’t use the left over dye for several months and it changed to a dusty blue.
Can you still use it? Sure. Just realize that it may not be the same color as the original batch you mixed up. If a dye has been sitting for more than 2 weeks, I will strain it before using. This gets out most of the odd globs and loose particles. Also, if you need a specific color for a dye lot, always mix up a fresh batch of dye.
Keep in mind, this is strictly from my personal experience using Jacquard Acid Dyes.
One more thing… if you decide not to use your left over dyes, please don’t just dump them down the drain or in the yard. Add some baking soda to neutralize the chemicals first.
Happy Saturday!
Annette
Kentucky Blue Fiber Co.
handweavingbynikki says
Thanks for the note about the baking soda…good to know.
kentuckybluefiber says
You’re welcome. I actually learned it not too long ago from a book on felting.
kentuckybluefiber says
You’re welcome. I actually learned it not too long ago from a book on felting.
handmadebyjo says
Thanks for the acid tip. And posting this – I’m new to dying and just absorb as much info as I can get.
kentuckybluefiber says
Thank you! I’ve been dyeing for about 6 years now. Mostly yarn and fiber. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy Dyeing!
handmadebyjo says
Thanks for the acid tip. And posting this – I’m new to dying and just absorb as much info as I can get.
kentuckybluefiber says
Thank you! I’ve been dyeing for about 6 years now. Mostly yarn and fiber. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. Happy Dyeing!