VAT Dyes in Kenya: Complete Guide to Fabric Dyeing, Prices & How to Use Them
| Discover everything about VAT dyes in Kenya, what they are, how to use them on fabric, available colours, prices per 50g and 1kg, and where to buy from Bienville Supplies. |
At the heart of most vibrant, long-lasting fabric colours is VAT dye and Bienville Supplies is proud to be one of Kenya’s leading stockists of VAT dyes in multiple colours.
What Is VAT Dye?
VAT dye is a class of water-insoluble dye that must be converted into a soluble form (reduced) before it can bond with fabric fibres. Once applied and oxidised, the colour becomes deeply embedded in the fibre making VAT-dyed fabric extremely resistant to washing and fading.
Why Kenyan Schools and Businesses Choose VAT Dyes
Schools (Art & Craft): Tie-dye is a staple activity in Kenyan schools under the CBC. VAT dyes produce vivid, lasting colours that won’t wash out after the first laundering.
Small Businesses: Many entrepreneurs run tie-dye and fabric dyeing businesses for kanga, kitenge-inspired designs, and custom fashion items.
Home Crafters: VAT dyes offer professional results without industrial equipment.
How to Use VAT Dye on Fabric
What You’ll Need
- VAT dye (50g or 1kg depending on batch size)
- Sodium hydrosulphite (reducing agent)
- Caustic soda (sodium hydroxide)
- Hot water (ideally 50–60°C)
- Pre-wetted fabric (natural fibre — cotton, ginger fabric)
- Gloves and protective clothing
Basic Process
- Pre-wet the fabric — soak in warm water for 15–30 minutes
- Prepare the dye bath — dissolve the VAT dye in hot water, then add caustic soda and sodium hydrosulphite
- Submerge the fabric — keep fully submerged for 15–30 minutes, turning regularly
- Oxidise — remove the fabric and expose to air; the true colour develops as the dye oxidises
- Rinse thoroughly — rinse in cold water until the water runs clear
- Wash and dry — wash with mild detergent and dry in shade
| Safety note: Caustic soda is corrosive. Always wear gloves and work in a ventilated area. Keep out of reach of children. |
VAT Dye Colours Available
We stock VAT dyes in multiple popular colours including: Brilliant Blue, Olive Green, Orange, Scarlet/Red, Yellow, Violet/Purple, Black, and Brown. Confirm current stock by visiting our website or contacting us.
VAT Dye Prices — 50g vs 1kg
| Size | Best For |
| 50g | School projects, small batches, trying a new colour |
| 1kg | Businesses, schools buying in bulk, professional dyers |
Shop VAT Dyes → bienvillesupplies.co.ke
VAT Dye vs Reactive Dye vs Leather Dye
| Feature | VAT Dye | Reactive Dye | Leather Dye |
| Best fibres | Cotton, linen, cellulose | Cotton, silk, wool | Leather, suede |
| Colourfastness | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Process | Requires reduction | Salt + soda ash | Applied directly |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use VAT dye without caustic soda? A: No. Caustic soda is essential for the reduction process. Without it, the dye won’t bond properly.
Q: How much dye do I need per kilogram of fabric? A: 10–20g of VAT dye per 100g of dry fabric gives medium-depth shades. For deep colours, use 30–50g per 100g.
Q: Do VAT dyes work on synthetic fabrics? A: VAT dyes work best on natural cellulose fibres. They do not work well on polyester or nylon.
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