Vat Dyes are a unique class of dye, similar to Indigo. The dye powder is not soluble in water, nor will it dye cellulose or silk fibers, until reduction takes place usually at 120° to 140° F (50°C to 60°C). They require a reducing agent, Thiox, an alkali and Lye . Each 1/2 ounce jar of dye will make a vat of 1 1/4 gallons (5 liters). Vat dyes lend themselves beautifully to bound resist techniques, like shibori, because they discharge the original color all in one step, leaving a little halo around the patterned area. It's just like magic!

Suggested Auxiliaries when using Vat Dyes:

Glycerine

Thiox

Pot Ash

Synthrapol SP, Synthrapol LF or PROsapol