Tie Dying can be messy, but there are easier ways to get the same look.  All you need is any white cotton item, an array of Sharpie markers and common rubbing alcohol.

Start by making a design on your shirt, sweatshirt, pillowcase, etc.  Dots are good, but really anything can have a great effect, even words.  Once you have a design in place, lay your item over a plastic bowl (to catch drips) and gently, using a dropper if possible, drip the rubbing alcohol on your Sharpie design.  At first it may not look like much is happening, but the the alcohol continues to spread and will make a great “Tie-Dye” design.  Blending colors can make for a great effect and black will turn purple, so that looks great too.

Once your item is completely dry (really dry, alcohol is flammable, don’t heat a damp item!) you can set the colors by throwing it in a hot dryer for about 15 minutes.  After that you are free to wash as you normally would.

Kids love this, and the clean up is minimal!  Enjoy!