One great way to keep the memories alive is to create a keepsake from your color splashed uniform. Although it is easy enough to wash out, you have the option to keep the color powder on your t-shirt and save the colorful evidence and you can continue to wear that color like a badge of honor!
Simple steps to make color run powder stay on a shirt and keep the memories:
1) Promptly change out of your colored gear and do not shake off excess color:
The more you move, the color powder dusts off the fabric, so limit your dancing till after you change into some clean clothes. Gently place your shirt in a bag till you get home for the color setting process.
2) Lay shirt flat and spray to soak with white vinegar:
Spray generously, (and we mean really soak it) and be aware that the colors may blend and bleed together as the fabric becomes wet. The strength of the vinegar can also fade the screen print, but we think it looks kinda vintage (and that’s hip right now, right?).
3) Keep the t-shirt flat to dry and iron with high heat:
If you hang when still wet, gravity will bring all the colors to the bottom and turn them to a muddy brown. Instead, keep flat till dry, then place a rag between the shirt and the iron to set the color with heat.
4) Toss in the dryer:
As a final assurance to set the color, turn the shirt inside out and throw it in the dryer on high heat for about 10 minutes.
5) Wash and wear:
Some color warriors frame their race-wear and display the colorful gear like a trophy. Others want to wear it out in the world as a conversation garment! Be aware that with each wash, the color can fade, but it will always have a colorful glow after you have set the dyes as described above.