Category: Sustainable Dyes & Colourants

Natural dyeing uses dyes derived from natural sources such as plants, minerals, and insects to colour fabrics and other materials.

Debunking Myths About Natural Dyes: Separating Fact from Fiction

This post explores common myths about natural dyes, clarifying misconceptions such as their toxicity, fixing methods, vibrancy, complexity, and relevance today. While not entirely non-toxic and requiring specific mordants, natural dyes are celebrated for their unique beauty and sustainability, making them increasingly popular among artisans and sustainable practices.… Read More Debunking Myths About Natural Dyes: Separating Fact from Fiction

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My Love for Cochineal Magenta: A Journey of Excitement and Ethical Reflection

The author shares their fascination with cochineal dye’s vibrant magenta colour and its sustainable qualities. However, after realising it comes from insects, ethical concerns emerged. Despite the reassurance of responsible sourcing, the experience highlighted the complexities of balancing sustainability with personal ethics, leading to greater reflection on future crafting choices.… Read More My Love for Cochineal Magenta: A Journey of Excitement and Ethical Reflection

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“Is Cochineal Dye Ethical? Exploring Factors and Considerations”

The ethicality of cochineal dye is multifaceted, involving animal welfare, sustainability, cultural heritage, and consumer awareness. This natural dye, derived from insects, raises concerns for vegans but offers a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes. Ethical sourcing and supporting traditional practices are crucial for aligning with individual values on these issues.… Read More “Is Cochineal Dye Ethical? Exploring Factors and Considerations”

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“Stainless Steel vs. Aluminium: Choosing the Right Pot for Natural Dyeing”

When dyeing, distinguishing stainless steel from aluminium is essential. Stainless steel is heavier, shiny, and sometimes magnetic, while aluminium is lighter, duller, and non-magnetic. Additionally, stainless steel is harder to scratch, heats evenly, and is non-reactive with dyes. These contrasts ensure optimal dyeing results when selecting materials.… Read More “Stainless Steel vs. Aluminium: Choosing the Right Pot for Natural Dyeing”

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Solar Dyeing: A Sustainable Approach to Natural Dyeing of Textiles

Solar dyeing is a sustainable method of dyeing textiles using sunlight to extract colours from natural materials. This slow process involves natural fibres, dye substances, and mordants in sealed jars, requiring minimal intervention. It reduces energy consumption and carbon footprint while producing unique and vibrant results, appealing to sustainable fashion enthusiasts.… Read More Solar Dyeing: A Sustainable Approach to Natural Dyeing of Textiles

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The Chemistry of Plant Dyes: Nature’s Palette

Plant dyes, derived from various plant parts, produce a range of colours through natural compounds known as pigments and chromophores. While more sustainable than synthetic dyes, they face challenges like light-fastness and wash-fastness. Understanding the chemistry behind plant dyes enhances their application in textiles, promoting sustainable practices and innovative techniques in dyeing.… Read More The Chemistry of Plant Dyes: Nature’s Palette

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Natural Dyeing with Onion Skins: Testing & Creating Samples

The natural dyeing experiment involved organic velour, raw silk, and flannel fabrics to assess colour absorption over varying time frames. Results showed velour absorbed dye well but presented patchiness. Raw silk displayed vibrant hues, while flannel needed longer immersion to achieve rich colours. Future tests will examine colourfastness and storage of onion skins for sustainable dyeing.… Read More Natural Dyeing with Onion Skins: Testing & Creating Samples

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Medicinal Dyes

Medicinal dyes derived from plants and minerals provide both colour and therapeutic benefits. Historical uses include turmeric for inflammation, madder for kidney health, and indigo for skin disorders. Today, these dyes are gaining interest for sustainable textiles and wellness applications. They bridge tradition with modern health, promoting environmental sustainability and individual well-being.… Read More Medicinal Dyes

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Beautiful Beetroot: Is It Really the Perfect Natural Dye?

Beetroot, known for its striking pink-purple colour due to Betalain, is not a reliable natural dye. Recent findings reveal that its colour is temporary, fading quickly due to sensitivity to light and pH changes. While unsuitable for long-lasting projects, it remains valuable for short-term applications and experimental textile art.… Read More Beautiful Beetroot: Is It Really the Perfect Natural Dye?

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