Need advice on folding

[KEV]

Hello everyone!   I need advice on crisp folds. Take for instance the accordian fold.   I have noticed that some of the shirts I look at have very crisp, well defined folds, with very detailed results. My folds tend to end up uneven, meaning some are fat, and some are skinny, I would like to achieve sharp edges like I see on other peoples shirts. Am I drinking too much coffee before I fold them or what?....lol...thanks!

[tiedyejudy]

Hi, Kev and welcome!  I have learned that I get a crisper fold if I fold the garment damp.  I pre-wet it in the sink under running water, then squeeze out the excess water so the shirt is damp, but not soggy.  Then I smooth it out and remove as many wrinkles as I can on a counter.  The shirt layers stay together better, and I have more control over the fabric as I fold.  I start my fold at an edge of the garment, then reach ahead and bring back the next fold, matching the height to the first fold, then continue on until my folding has reached the other side of the shirt.  After I have folded and tied, I soda soak the shirt, then gently squeeze out the excess soda ash.  I tend to let my shirts air dry for a day or so before dyeing... just my preference.  You will find a lot of opinions about whether it is better to dye while the shirt is wet from the soda ash solution, to waiting until the shirt is completely dry... it's a matter of preference.
Hope this helps!  Also, if you have the means, there are a couple of DVD's out there showing tie-dye techniques.  I learned the above method of tying from Michael Fowler's 'The Art of tie-dye', but unfortunately, I don't think it is available for purchase any more.  However, Tom and Martine's 'Tie-dye 101' is still out there, along with their 3-volume set.     
Happy dyeing!

Judy

[KEV]

Thanks alot for the info!  I have been folding them damp, after the drain and spin cyle on my washer, but I think that may not be damp enough.   I will try wetting them more. Have a good day!

[mustdye]

Kev,
 I fold them like you do...still damp from the spin cycle.

If you're looking for consistent folds...I use to draw my fold line and then put a ruler on it and mark points for how far apart I wanted the top of the folds to be.
 

[steve]

As you continue to practice, you'll get better at it. After awhile you will find your perfect finger motions for keeping your pleats consistent.

[Jaja]

I think weight of the shirt also affects crispiness - thick material never makes as sharp fold as thinner one.