No matter what brand of dye you use, there are a few items you will definitely need.

* Something to Dye - The first thing you need is the item you wish to dye. The most common item is a t-shirt, but you can dye just about anything (shirt, pants, socks, handkerchief, pillowcase, sheets, curtains, tablecloth, etc). You just need to make sure it is at least 60% cotton.

* Something to Tie With - You also need rubber bands or string to tie up the item you will be dyeing. After all, the tying is what makes all of the cool, one-of-a-kind designs! We will cover different ways you can fold and tie your items in these step-by-step directions

* Dye - When it comes to dye, you have a few options. For our projects, we used RIT brand dye. This is usually my first choise for three reasons: 1) I have used it before with much success, 2) It was readily available, and 3) Each color cost us less than $3. You can also buy kits made especially for tie-dying or try Simply Spray.

Other than the above necessities, here is a list of other supplies you may need:

* Rubber Gloves - To protect your hands from the dye.

* Large Pot or Bucket - Used to mix the dye - it should be able to hold 3 - 5 Gallons and it should be old so you don't care if it gets stained.

* Squirt or Spray Bottles - Can be used to apply some brands of dye.

* Long-Handles Utensil - An old spoon, B-B-Q tongs, etc. to stir the dye.

* Soda Ash - This is sodium carbonate which is used with some dyes to pre-treat the item you are tie-dyeing to help create more vibrant colors.

* Salt - Used with RIT dye to help make darker colors more vibrant.

* Plastic Bag - Some dyes require the dyed item to sit in plastic bag for approx. 24 hours.

* Newspaper and/or Plastic Garbage Bag - Used to protect your work area.

* Rags, Paper Towels, Cleanser - For quick clean up.