Salt instead of soda ash?

Question

I just bought some Tulip tie dying stuff. i didn't have enough money for the Soda Ash so i asked a lady if I really needed it. She told me no and that salt does the same exact thing that soda ash does. is this true? and how much salt? thanks :]

Answer 1

No, salt is not the same thing. You can use Arm and Hammer Washing Soda. Washing soda is in the laundry aisle at the supermarket, and is less expensive than soda ash. But it does contain some bleach, so the colors may not come out as bright as you'd like. I've had pretty good results with it, though. How much to use depends on the dyeing method you are using. I'd try following the directions on the dye package, using the same amount of washing soda as they call for soda ash. Experiment and have fun!

Answer 2

You might want to e-mail Tulip and ask them.  Soda ash strikes me more as a borax or washing soda alkaline, possibly to neutralize the solution.  Salt can act as a leveler in dyes to make them take more evenly.  But it is also not likely you could use them one for one.