The present invention provides a composition that permits spray dyeing of a cellulosic, such as cotton, fabric or garment. The composition includes a wetter, an alkali, a reactive dye, and water, and preferably a thickener. The present compositions are made by first mixing together the wetter, reactive dye and water to form a first solution, then mixing the thickener into the first solution to form a second solution, and thereafter mixing or merging the alkali to the second solution within five minutes prior to spray application onto the cellulosic fabric or garment.