Tie-Dye Shoelaces

This activity, adapted from the Family Fun website, can be done in less than one hour and requires only white shoelaces, bowls or plastic yogurt containers, warm water, fabric paint, paintbrushes, and plastic bags. Hair elastics are optional.

Have children tie knots in the shoelaces about one inch apart or cinch one-inch loops with the hair elastics. Prepare each color of dye in its own bowl by mixing equal parts water and fabric paint (start with a tablespoon of each). If needed, add a few drops of paint to deepen the color or water to lighten the color. Mix with the paintbrush.

Have children dip each knot or loop of their shoelace into a different color. Remove the lace from the dye after a few seconds unless a very dark color is desired. (Colors will bleed slightly). Dry the laces flat on plastic bags. Do NOT undo the knots until the laces are dry.