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Answers To Good Questions
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 Which Brand is Best?
We offer a number of different products that seem similar. They all have passed our testing standards. The choice is not whether one is better than the other, but rather which is most appropriate for you and the type
of work you want to do...we can help guide you in the right direction. Different effects may be obtained by combining dyes, paints, inks or techniques on the same project...the possibilities are endless!
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Dye or Paint. Which Do I Use?
Dyes and paints are not the same thing. Dyes bond chemically to the fiber, becoming a part of it so the dyed fabric is coloured on both sides. Dyes do not change the feel, drape or luster, they are usually fixed by
steaming.
Silk Paints are between a dye and a fabric paint. They form a light coating on the surface of the fabric and are usually fixed by ironing.
Fabric paints bond to the surface of the fabric. They coat it and change the feel to some degree. Some are
hardly perceivable to the touch, others more. Most paints are fixed by ironing. We advise letting them air set two days to a week before washing.
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To Steam Or Not To Steam?
At first steaming might seem a little daunting but really it's as simple as steaming vegetables. The vibrant
rich colours are really worth the little extra time. Let the steam, not the water, reach the silk. We suggest
giving it a try with experimental pieces or an unpainted piece; if it comes out without wet patches you've got
it right. We advise letting your silk dry a day before steaming and air cure two days after steaming before washing. We have basic stove top steaming instructions and an excellent manual on building your own steamer.
If you don't want to, we'll do it. Just drop it off or mail it in to our monthly steaming service. If that doesn't grab you use our SetaSilk silk paint and simply iron to fix.
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What About Safety?
We will gladly pass on safety information supplied by the manufacturer. Remember that even safe products must not be ingested.
- Follow these general precautions:
- Wear an approved dust mask when handling powders to avoid inhaling them.
- If there is any chance of getting dyes or chemicals in your eyes, wear protective goggles.
- Wear rubber gloves to prevent absorption through your skin.
- Provide adequate ventilation when fumes are present or work outside.
- Don't use cooking or eating utensils for craft projects.
- If you store anything in the fridge, label it and tape it closed.
- Keep the dyes away from children and pets.
- Pregnant women must be particularly alert. Discuss the use of dyes and chemicals with your doctor.
- If you experience an adverse reaction to any product stop at once.
- The main thing to use is your own common sense!
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