How to Bleach Denim to Stonewashed

The industrial stonewashing process of denim material includes sandblasting and washing the fabric with stones to soften the denim and produce a worn-out look. Although it is impossible to completely recreate the finish of the industrial process at home, you can achieve a deliberate stonewashed pattern and look on the fabric by distressing the fabric by hand. The abrasion of the fabric coupled with the color fading caused by using bleach mimics a stonewashed finish.

Instructions

Stone-Wash Denim With Bleach

1

Lay the fabric flat and choose the areas you want to look stonewashed.

2

Rub the pumice stone or sandpaper on the areas in an up down and side to side motion for 3 to 4 minutes.

3

Dip the cotton swab in bleach and dot it around the area.

4

Continue to rub the pumice stone or sandpaper on the areas until you see the amount of stonewashing desired. The bleach will start to change the denim to a lighter blue

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