Using tea to stain muslin...anyone know how to do this?

[asheebeans]

I am assuming the darker you want the material, the longer you would leave it in the tea, right? :rolleyes2 (CT's official "stupid question of the day") I just want a really light stain, not dark and grubby. Thanks in advance!

[gingerinarkansas]

I always boiled the water, shut it off, add 2-3 family size tea bags and let them steep. After a while remove bags and add fabric...leave in until desired color is achieved. Since you do want too dark, try with 1 or 2 bags and watch close until you're at the right color. Rinse in cold water, even add a little vinegar to help prevent fading. Ginger

[barncat]

I use leftover coffee...no waste and gets it a little bit darker. You can dilute for a lighter color.

[asheebeans]

Thanks guys!!

[TexasBrat]

I use both coffee and instant tea...but mostly instant tea and I just dip the muslin in and out until desired shade is reached. I like the prim look so I even have some of the tea crystals leave big blotches.

[sassysoapsnsuch]

i use walnut crystals if you want to try some send me your address *i will send you some

[socoolsoap]

I've had better luck using coffee than tea.

[Candlebuddy]

I put tea and/or coffee mixture in a spray bottle; no dipping for me ... I just spritz my fabric.

[Judy, USMC]

The dipping and soaking methods give an overall even appearance. I believe Hancock has bolts of tea-colored muslin.

If you want a more primitive look you can dip the fabric and then put it on an flat surface - bunch it up a little - and the old dark streaks and splotches will appear as it dries (about a day indoors.) Using the spray bottle at close range will also grubbie it up, if that's the look you're going for!