Applying a gradient. Whats the best fabric to use?

Hey all!
Im wanting to apply a gradient of a red fading to a yellow orange. Im not wanting to do this with fur but with some other fabric such as fleece. The gradient is going to be on the inside of the ears. My biggest concern is that I dont have an airbrush. Will I need to get one to accomplish this gradient? Or is there another method such as dry brushing?
Also I can draw up a picture real quick if anyone has confusion.
thanks for any help