for washable white glue and cold water dye (such as Dylon Cold Water Dye for Fabrics and Crafts), easily applied with a spray bottle. Sandwich folded newspaper or a piece of thick plastic between the front and back of a 100 percent cotton T-shirt.
Using a thick-bristled paintbrush dipped in white glue, have your child paint bold geometric shapes or stick figures onto the front of the shirt. Explain that only the areas covered with glue will remain white after the shirt is dyed. Let the glue dry, then flip the shirt over and paint the back. When the glue is completely dry, prepare the cold water dye according to the package directions and pour it into a clean spray bottle. Wearing goggles and rubber gloves, practice your spraying technique on newspaper. (You may want to take this step outside.)
Once you and your child have figured out the best method for evenly applying color, you can begin dyeing the shirt. Spray the front, wait a few minutes for the dye to take, then turn the shirt over and spray the back. Allow the fabric to dry overnight, then rinse the shirt in cool water to dissolve and wash away the glue. Finally, set the color by washing the shirt in hot water and detergent. Rinse the shirt once more, hang it up to dry and it's ready to wear.
