How to update basic white bed linens with pretty ink-stained ombré edges.
I wanted to capture the look of watery dyed bed linens without having to buy a new set of sheets. When black Sharpie permanent marker is sprayed with rubbing alcohol, it takes on a lilac hue that blurs gradually into the natural linen weave of sheets. The finished effect is organic and tranquil — and yes, they're washable! Here's how to get this relaxed look:
Materials and Tools
- Sharpie pen
- White linen duvet cover and pillow shams
- Rubbing alcohol
- Spray bottle
Step 1: Trace the trim of your sheets
Lay your duvet cover and pillow shams flat on the ground on top of a protective surface such as newspaper or board. Using a Sharpie permanent marker, trace along the four sides of your duvet cover. There is no need to use a ruler to guide you; an imperfect line only enhances the coveted dishevelled look. Do the same thing to the pillow shams, this time simply tracing the hemline of the sham.
Step 2: Spray with rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can be found in the first-aid section of the grocery store or pharmacy. Transfer it to a spray bottle and apply generously along the lines you've drawn with the Sharpie. Pin the sheet to a drying rack or clothesline and let the pigment bleed into the white sheets over the course of a few hours. The more you spray, the more the ink will bleed, creating a stunning watercolour effect. Once dry, tumble sheets in a hot dryer for 15 minutes to set the dye, then launder. Finally, mix the DIY sheets with solids and patterned bedding in the same pretty hues.
Linblomma linen duvet cover and pillow shams, mattress, boxspring, Ikea; side table, West Elm; artwork, Elte; sconce, The Door Store; patterned pillow, Lucca, Toronto (416) 485-4999; purple coverlet, Au Lit Fine Linens; wall colour, Martha Stewart Living Popcorn (MSL254), The Home Depot.
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