it varies... i generally use 2 oz hanks of cotton worsted... but there are some smaller samples and a thread-like sample... never jot down the yardage when I am doing sample dye lots, Sorry! :)
I have tried MANY dyes and found tulip's tie dye kit the BEST... what is most important to presoak warm with alum or salt and hank it... then wrap and let sit as long as humanly possible.... rinsing several times in cold is also necessary... it is still incredibly messy and your hands will look like a murdered clown the minute you touch it wet ungloved... I am working on a tutorial!