Abstract

Fabric blends of inherently flame resistant fibers and flame resistant cellulosic fibers that contain a flame retardant. According to the method of production of these blends, the inherently flame resistant fibers can be dyed a full shade of color without depleting the flame retardant contained in the cellulosic fibers. In addition, the potential for laundering shrinkage of the inherently flame resistant fibers of the blends is reduced regardless of whether both, one of, or neither of the inherently flame resistant fibers and the flame resistant cellulosic fibers are dyed. Dyeing and/or shrinkage prevention of these blends is conducted at temperatures below 100° C., typically approximately between 70° C. and 100° C. Preferably, dye-assistants used in the process are selected from the group comprising N-cyclohexylpyrrolidone, benzyl alcohol, N,N-dibutylformamide, N,N-diethylbenzamide, hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium salt, N,N-dimethylbenzamide, N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, N-octylpyrrolidone, aryl ether, an approximately 50/50 blend of N,N-dimethylcaprylamide and N,N-dimethylcapramide, and mixtures thereof.