rainbowkidstiedye

In my home studio, Rainbow Kids, located in Western MA, I create vibrant hand dyed clothing, wearable art, which is as special and unique as the person who wears it. My collection of clothing features pieces for people of all sizes and ages.

As a work at home mom, I started my company in 2008 to provide bright, colorful and fun clothing for babies, children and adults. My son has worn tie dye since he was born. Some of my favorite presents were the tiny tie dyed onesies and t-shirts he wore as a newborn.

In my pre motherhood days I worked in museums as an historian and museum interpreter demonstrating spinning, weaving, knitting, quilting and wool dyeing. I have always loved the creative process of working with fabrics, fibers and colors.

In my home business, I work with organic and conventional cotton clothing to create a work of art. The clothing is hand dyed with fiber reactive dyes which produce vibrant long-lasting colors. I enjoy experimenting with different colors and patterns and take my inspiration from the playful nature of children.

In my studio, each piece of clothing is folded, tied and banded by hand to create the design. The powdered dyes are mixed with water. After soaking the clothing in a mordant solution, I use squeeze bottles to apply the liquid dye to the clothing. Then each item is enclosed in a plastic bag and allowed to “age” like a fine wine for 24 hours. This important step allows the dyes to bond with the fabric and creates the vivid colors. After dyeing, the items are rinsed by hand and then triple washed to remove any excess dye. It is a joy to view each creation as I take it out of the washer. No two are exactly alike.

I am a proud and active member of the organization Artisans of Western Mass and the Etsy group Made in Massachusetts.