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Allyson Tallent of Grosse Pointe Farms shares her talent for dyeing yarn with Kool-Aid by instructing classes at Artisan Knitworks in Grosse Pointe Park. Her next class is scheduled for noon July 10. The fee is $15. To register, just call the studio at (313) 823-4132.

Tallent says she's looking forward to expanding into chemical dyeing. She feels, "You can get more vibrant colors, like deep purples, cobalt blues and true reds."

As a prolific knitter, she sells many of her garments and accessories outright, while some are available at Artisan Knitworks. Prices range from approximately $15 for a pair of angora baby mittens to $350 for an adult-size sweater.

Dyeing with Kool-Aid

Level: Beginner

Estimated time: 1 1/2 hours, plus drying time

Tools: Measuring cup, microwavable pan, microwave oven, pot, rubber gloves, baster, pastry brush, a pan for each color (3 work best) of Kool-Aid.

Supplies: For each 200-yard skein (not ball) of undyed yarn, use 4 packs Kool-Aid in same or different flavors/colors and a pint of white vinegar.

Instructions

1. Soak yarn in water mixed with 1 cup vinegar for 30 minutes.

2. Mix each package/color of Kool-Aid separately in a pan with 1/2 cup water and 1/4 cup vinegar. Stir until powder dissolves.

3. Remove yarn from vinegar water, squeeze excess water out and divide into three sections, loosely tying each.

4. Dip one section of yarn into one color; then another section into second color. Wearing rubber gloves is recommended. Then dip remaining undyed yarn into third color. (For solid color, pour dye evenly over yarn in pan and push down on it.)

5. Put in microwavable pan and use brush and/or baster to blend colors. Expect some muddling of colors.

6. Cook in microwave on high for 2 minutes. Then, let set for 2-3 minutes. Yarn will be HOT.

7. Check color of liquid by pushing down. If water has any color, nuke and let set again. Repeat until all water runs clear.

8. When yarn is cool enough to handle, remove from dish and tug to straighten it out.

9. When yarn is cool, rinse in pot filled with tepid water. Drain and squeeze excess water out. Tug it straight and hang to dry.