The duration for which dye needs to remain on fabric during the tie-dye process is a crucial determinant of the final vibrancy and color saturation. For example, allowing dye to dwell on the fabric for an extended period generally yields deeper, more intense colors compared to shorter durations.
Adequate dye dwell time ensures proper chemical bonding between the dye molecules and the fabric fibers, leading to a more permanent and wash-resistant result. Historically, artisans have experimented with varying durations, discovering optimal times for different types of dyes and fabrics to achieve specific aesthetic outcomes and improved colorfastness.