In accordance with my plans for a pretty pregnancy on the cheap, I didn't succumb to shopper envy when I saw these cute pink pants at ASOS. Would it be possible to DIY something similar? I wasn't sure, but I had a plan to try it out. Well, of course, these trousers aren't the exact same as the ASOS ones, but they certainly answer my craving for colorful legs!
These pants ended up costing a whopping total of $6, if you divvy out only the cost of the portion of dye that I used. I found a pair of horrid flared short kahkis (maternity style) at the thrift store for $3, and purchased some pink & fuschia Rit dye, as well as Rit color-stay potion (as I call it).
First, I layed out the pants and overtop, I layed a pair of stretchy cigarette pants that have a fit I already know I love. Using a water-soluable fabric pen, I traced around the inside of the legs, and used that line as a guide to stitch the inside of the kahki trousers. I stitched two lines of thread, so that the seams won't bust when I wiggle around. Then I trimmed the excess fabric.
Next I filled the washing machine with hot water, poured in some pink dye and a splash of fuschia. I let the washer agitate for 60 minutes, and then let the cycle rinse and spin. After that, I filled the washer again with hot water, this time using the Rit color-stay agent. After that cycle was through, I tossed the pants into the dryer, and they were ready to wear!
This was such a fun project, I can definitely see myself making more pants- in all of the colors of the technicolor rainbow!
Look at you! Those pants look awesome and has me itching to DIY a pair of my own (because I, too, have been craving a pair of candy colored trousers). Being a college student I don't exactly have the cash to indulge my need for peach or lilac pants that run north of $20! Haha. This has me inspired!
Amazing stuff! Thanks for sharing! <3
Posted by: Ashlee | March 29, 2012 at 07:48 PM
they turned out terrific!! awesome idea and execution. :)
Posted by: shaina longstreet | March 29, 2012 at 08:19 PM
They look splendid! I am very inspired!
Anna
Posted by: olive green anna | March 30, 2012 at 06:00 AM
What a wonderful job! They look perfect!
Posted by: Victoria / Justice Pirate | March 30, 2012 at 08:03 AM
I LOVE dying clothes! It's still magical to me, no matter how many times I do it :)
Posted by: Eleni Drinks Tea | March 30, 2012 at 09:19 AM
you are so beautiful!
Posted by: kelsie | March 30, 2012 at 10:24 AM
WOW! What a steal! Your pants turned out super cute and the colour is lovely! I've only dyed a shirt once [girl-scouts days] and it was tie-dye. This project makes me want to try the whole dying process again! Knowing I can choose whatever colour I want and do it is so much better than relying on manufacturers to make it for you. Especially since everything I want is almost always out of my budget. I just can't get over how absolutely stunning you are in those pants!
Posted by: Anna D. | March 30, 2012 at 11:36 AM
You look so lovely! All the best to you and your (soon to be) little family <3
Posted by: Lin | March 30, 2012 at 11:56 AM
ooh la la! love that pink!
Posted by: danielle | March 30, 2012 at 04:52 PM
Wow! Thank you for that idea, your pants look lovely!
Posted by: Jeanette | March 30, 2012 at 06:59 PM
What a cool idea! I've never thought of dyeing using my washer.
That seems much easier than the "bucket" method I use.
Do you ever have any problems with leftover dye ruining any light clothes?
I don't know how that could happen, but I was just wondering.
Thanks for a great, cute idea!
Lisa H.
lisastuf.blogspot.com
Posted by: Lisa Hall | March 31, 2012 at 04:50 AM
youre a genius! What a great idea!!!!
Posted by: Laura Chavous | March 31, 2012 at 12:01 PM
how fun and crafty!!
Posted by: danielle | March 31, 2012 at 06:39 PM
What a cute idea! And they look amazing.
Posted by: Miss Peregrin | March 31, 2012 at 11:17 PM
Love this! I've been looking for a pair of coral pants, but haven't been able to find a pair for a good deal yet. Maybe I'll just make my own... ;)
http://thetitledblog.courteneyrodda.com/
Posted by: Courteney | March 31, 2012 at 11:56 PM
Ah! These look fab! And so do you, mama. Glowing!
Posted by: Rachel Denbow | April 01, 2012 at 03:56 PM
they came out so cute! i love the pink!
Xo,
steffy
Steffys Pros and Cons
Posted by: steffy | April 01, 2012 at 08:39 PM
I'm not too adventurous with my wardrobe, but wow, you rock those pink pants and make me want a pair!
Posted by: Jamie | April 03, 2012 at 01:35 PM
Umm...genius. And so cute! :) Off to search for white clothes on the cheap to dye...he he. You've inspired me!
Posted by: Michelle Clement | April 06, 2012 at 12:16 AM