Featured Artist : Dierdre DantTieDyedMonkeys

I am Deirdre Dant, and I love to tie-dye.  I learned to tie-dye over 20 years ago. My mom was my teacher and she still inspires me and teaches me new things. I am happily married and have two amazing children. I have furry helpers also (2 Schnoodle dogs and 2 cats). It is a whirlwind of fun, fur, and creativity here.

I would have to say that life, family and special requests are what inspire me. Sometimes an idea just floats fully-formed into my head, and other times I have to work at it.  Two of my favorite t-shirt designs were born because I had a customer ask “would you make me a shirt?”  The frog and owl shirts are because I said “I’ve never made one before, but I’d be happy to try.”  I make another shirt that is based on the Eye of Sauron from The Lord of the Rings.  That one came about because I was watching the movie with my son, and when the eye came on the screen, I realized I could create it with tie-dye. I have a large extended family, and I usually make them tie-dyes for birthdays and holidays. I try to come up with something new every year. I also just like to try new things and experiment.  If you use compatible colors, it is hard to make a mistake.

The Dharma products I use are:

Dharma’s Fiber Reactive Dye (love all the different colors that are available, and all your helpful instructions)

Soda Ash

Urea

Sinew

sodium alginate

Bamboo Socks

Rabbit Skins Baby Hat

Bandannas

Lace

Dharma’s Textile Detergent

Banners 

Pillowcases

Rayon sarongs