What the Heck is: PROsoft K

In this second installment of our What the Heck is: series we’re addressing another issue encountered in the dyeing process. Stiffening of the fabric’s hand is a constant challenge for dyers and this semi-permanent fabric softener may be just the answer. Used on cottons, silks and synthetic fabrics PROsoft K will not discolor when exposed to heat treatments and ageing.

Master dyer David Paulin points out that the product is manufactured for use on yardage rather than garments which have usually been treated with sizing or other additives complicating the process. “It takes experience to tweak it for use on garments,” he says, and trial and error is sometimes the only way of successfully returning a soft hand to the piece. David successfully uses the product on clothing. While the required “precision may be daunting, it is possible” our expert says.

Interestingly, David believes that the home user tends to be more cavalier about following directions than experienced professionals. Meant for commercial use, a heavy duty dye like Dylon should be used to insure color fastness. Rit, for example, will not stand up to the process. “People must understand that this isn’t Downy [Fabric Softener], this is industrial strength,” David says.

It is important that the temperature be maintained within the manufacturers recommended range, 105º – 120ºF (41º – 49ºC). Some “Energy Efficient” machines may not get hot enough so you’ll have to heat water on the stove and use a thermometer to check the temperature. It is essential to maintain the heat level for a successful result.

This is a chemical containing formaldehyde and must be used with caution, warns David. The manufacturer recommends that rubber gloves, an apron or old clothes as well as eye wear be worn, illustrative of the product’s strength. David suggests thirty minutes of rinsing as opposed to the recommended twenty. If the product isn’t thoroughly rinsed, it can actually burn the skin touching the cloth.

All these caveats aside, this product used properly is a highly effective finish to your dyeing process. It is like baking compared with cooking – precision, not innovation is the rule. Check out this link for exact instructions on how to use PROsoft K .

Cheryl (with roger kimpton)