Every summer, my mom hosted a homemade summer camp she lovingly called Camp Woodfield, named after our street. It was filled with beach days, museum trips, and even evenings at the Hollywood Bowl. But the memory that stands out most? Kicking off the summer by making Camp Woodfield tie dye t-shirts with the neighborhood kids.
Now that I’m a parent, I want to recreate that same magic. This year, we created our own version of “camp” at home. To add structure and fun to the long summer days, I built a simple summer routine—and no summer camp is complete without a custom t-shirt!
This summer, we created our own “camp.” I wanted to add structure to our long summer days, so I designed a flexible routine to help make the summer as stress-free and FUN as possible. Every campers needs their own camp t-shirt for “field trips” (or our family’s outings to local destinations). My kids are still young, so instead of traditional tie dye, I thought it would be easier for their little hands to us travel size spray bottles!
Kid-Friendly Spray Tie Dye Shirts
Since traditional tie dye can be messy and difficult for little hands, we tried a spray tie dye method using travel-size spray bottles. This easy technique is toddler-friendly, creative, and produces vibrant, wearable results. Plus, kids love spraying the colors themselves!
- No rubber banding or tying required
- Great for toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age kids
- Less mess and more control with spray bottles
- Customizable designs with stencils and stickers
- A wearable craft they’ll proudly show off
Whether you’re planning a DIY summer camp, a playdate activity, or just need a fun project for a lazy afternoon, these spray tie dye t-shirts are a hit.
Supplies Needed for DIY Spray Tie Dye Shirts
Supplies include:
- Tie dye refill powder
- 6 travel size spray bottles
- Blue Tape / Stencils / Stickers (for your design)
- Disposable table cloth
- White t-shirts or some other white fabric item
- Cardboard
- Gloves and aprons
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spray Tie Dye Shirts
- Pre-wash the T-shirts
This helps the dye absorb better and removes any factory residue. - Insert cardboard inside each shirt. This prevents the dye from seeping through to the back of the shirt.
- Mix the tie dye. In each spray bottle, mix water and tie dye powder. We made the colors very concentrated for bold results.
- Set up your workspace. Spread out a disposable tablecloth outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Put on gloves or aprons if desired.
- Add stencils, tape, or stickers. Let kids place their designs on the shirt to create negative space art.
- Spray the dye. Spray around the shapes or freely apply colors all over. Layer colors for cool effects!
- Dry and set the design. Let shirts dry completely (at least 8–9 hours), then wash separately in cold water and hang to dry.
- Wear and enjoy! Your kids now have a colorful custom camp shirt they’ll be excited to wear again and again.
Other Recommended Crafts & Activities
Check out these other kids craft and activity ideas! From science and crafts, to cooking and travel, there is something for all ages to enjoy!
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