Plants Used for Dying Fabric & Yarn

Dying fabric, yarn and other fiber with plants is simple, earth-friendly and can yield almost every color. Sometimes you can even find dying materials in your own yard.

History

People have been using plants to dye fiber since ancient times. Naturally dyed clothing was discovered in the tomb of King Tut, and kings through the ages wore naturally dyed purple finery.

Types

Natural dyes fall into three categories: dyes from plants, dyes from animals and dyes from minerals. Some natural materials need a mordant to help them hold color; common mordants are iron and tin. Soaking fabric in a fixative such as salt water or vinegar before dying will also make color permanent.

Process

To make a natural dye, cut the natural material into pieces and add twice the water to the amount of plant. Bring the mixture to a boil and then cook on medium heat for one hour. Strain the mixture and use the dye on fiber.

Features

A multitude of colors result from natural dyes: dandelion root makes brown, carrot makes orange, strawberries and cherries make pink, saffron petals make purple and sumac leaves lead to black.

Expert Insight

Wearing rubber gloves and using an old pot during the dying process keeps good items from being permanently stained. Letting natural material soak longer will lead to more intensely colored fiber.

References

• Natural dyes
• Quilt Hisotry

Resources

• More on natural dye color and technique