Two-Tone Tie-Dye Clothespins

Clothespins aren't just for hanging up laundry –they are a clever and inexpensive workhorse for all around the house! Everything from displaying children’s artwork, to wrapping presents, to sealing off an open bag of chips. Why would anybody buy a $2 chip clip when you can buy 36 clothespins for a dollar? A clever organizing staple in any classroom, a bundle of these candy colored clothespins make for a fun and inexpensive teacher’s gift any time of year!
These clothespins are colorful and kid-friendly craft you can make by the dozen in a single afternoon. Want to learn how? Keep reading...

Materials

• Tulip One-Step Mini Tie Dye Kit. It is important to use a fabric-safe dye to avoid color coming off on paper, skin or clothing down the line.
• Wooden Clothespins. Quantity is up to you. This kit will provide ample dye for hundreds of  clothespins, possibly thousands, depending on how saturated you want the color to come out.
• Protective gloves  (included in the kit)
• Water
• Disposable cups or bowls
• Ziplock bag(s) filled with water
• Pliers (optional)  

Instructions

1. Open the top of the dye bottle. 2. Fill bottle with water and shake. 3. Pour contents into a bowl. Optional: Add more water to create a larger (but less saturated) dye bath. 4. Insert clothespins in the water. 5. To prevent the clothespins from floating, weigh them down using a ziplock bag filled with water. Let the clothespins soak for at least 30 minutes (feel free to leave in overnight for more saturated colors). 6. Remove the clothespins from the dye bath and allow to dry on rags or paper towels. 7. Using your fingers or a pair of pliers to remove springs.

 Sorting the colors into piles will help you create the optimum color combinations. If you have leftover dye, try mixing colors and see what subtle color variations you can make on your own.

You could also skip the part about removing the springs. One color clothespins look pretty nifty as is.

...look whose closet just got a little bit brighter?

Have fun!