'Playing' with Reactive Dyes

I've been wanting to try using reactive dyes for a while now. Currently, I've only used acid dyes because I've only dyed wool, mohair and some silk, all protein fibers. I have a lot of fun with acid dyes. I love color and creating different color combinations is always exciting.
So I'm quite ready to try reactive dyes...... I purchased some bamboo top and some tencel top to try with the reactive dye. They are so beautiful undyed, lots of luster and shine. That's one of the reasons we raise Romney and Cotswold sheep and Angora Goats. Their fleeces have lots of luster. Yummy!

I've read up on reactive dyes and the different procedures depending on the effect you want to achieve. So I'm starting with the low water immersion method because I want to use several colors at a time. Obviously, you have to follow all the safety rules... masks when mixing the dyes and gloves when handling the dye.


Here are some pics of the process:

This is after I poured the colors and before I added the fixer.
















This is after I poured the fixer and before I applied a plastic cover.













Here's a shot of a batch with the plastic on and I'm waiting for the reaction time to pass.















And finally shots of the finished rinsed roving - the colors are gorgeous! I love it!















I can't wait to spin them! I know it will be different than spinning wool. I'll fluff the fiber and probably predraft a little to loosen everything up. I'll post pics when I spin some up!