Sunday, February 3, 2013

DIY Bleach Print Leggings

I had a lot of fun recently with the most exciting new discovery...the Clorox Bleach Pen. I had seen a couple of really cool tutorials over the past few months on bleach painting words and designs onto fabric, like this one here. So I did a little research (mainly because the thought of a paintbrush & bleach+Me seemed dangerous) and found others recommending the Clorox Bleach "Gel" Pen because of the easy application and cleanup. I also found this image, and was totally inspired by pattern. I ran out and grabbed myself a bleach pen ( 3$!) and a pair of inexpensive leggings. Now I wished I'd grabbed like 5 pens and many more pieces of plain clothing...
(I apologize for grainy photos taken on a rainy day..)
All it took was spreading a white (in case I misplaced any bleach) towel down and then drawing my design on with the pen! These leggings were a thick knit material so I wasn't really worried about the bleach seeping through but  cardboard between layers is recommended. I let the bleach gel sit for about 10-15 mins (you can watch the progress, I saw it turning a desirable brown so I stopped the process) and then rinsed my leggings in the sink in a neutralizing solution of  1 part hydrogen peroxide to 10 parts water, working quickly so the bleach didn't spread to other areas. Then I hand washed them thoroughly to remove any excess bleach and threw them in the washing machine. 
This was so incredibly easy, and I am thrilled to pieces with my new leggings. There are imperfections, and small bleed spots but that's part of the beauty I think:) I really can't wait to do this again....
(This is a bridge over a stream behind the cottage at Podunk.)
 
How cool is the bleach pen? Try it and I guarantee you'll be hooked;) I'd love to see what you make!

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7 comments:

  1. These are fun! I love the color the bleach leaves on the black legging!
    <3alyssa
    http://mismatchedmess.wordpress.com

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    1. Thanks! Yea I've done a few more pieces of black clothing since this post, and I'm noticing that anything black with spandex in it gets that brown color with the gel bleach. Thanks for stopping by again!
      xo

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  2. I was browsing in the internet to show my students what bleach pen leggings loko like and how easy it can be for them to DIY when I came across your blog. I really appreciate your great pics, but more importantly, I stopped because we have the same coat! It's great for looking awesome during Canadian winters =)

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    1. O wow!! Lulu you and I have great taste(heehee;) This is my most favorite coat. Actually my Mama picked it out for me so she gets the credit, but I absolutely adore it and I'm sure you do to! Thanks for stopping by, I'm so flattered that you were able to show my photos to your students!! Very cool;)
      Thanks LuLu!!
      xo

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  3. Tank top are good to wear during workouts, as my friend recommended. She is wearing tank top while hitting the gym. I also want to try them. Searched out a great store that is giving best tights on decent price. Will place the order there.

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  4. Great leggings makes your changed am a graphic designer and illustrator having great experience in designing leggings and tights
    i will design latest , new and attrative leggies pattrents and eye catching designs for you.
    i design uniqe and decent pattrens people will love to buy. I belive if you do some thing different from market
    you new idea can give you more sale.

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  5. https://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=5313913412644984738&postID=5680977111393768173&page=1&token=1537188354916&isPopup=true

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