How to Extract Natural Dyes

By eHow Hobbies, Games & Toys Editor

Rate: (8 Ratings)

You can make dyes with items found right in your own neighborhood.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

  • Old Nylon Stockings
  • Food Processors
  • Large Bowls
  • Stockpots

Step1
Collect plants, mosses, roots, berries, flowers, nuts and any other natural objects that might contain colors.
Step2
Chop up your collected items in a food processor or run them through a meat grinder.
Step3
Catch the juices in a bowl.
Step4
Put the chopped objects in a nylon stocking and tie the top shut.
Step5
Set the stocking in a bucket or bowl with 2 to 3 quarts of water. Be sure to pour in whatever juices you got as well.
Step6
Let the items soak in a bowl for 24 hours.
Step7
Remove the stocking and put it in a stockpot with 2 quarts of fresh water.
Step8
Bring the water to a low boil for 30 minutes. Watch to make sure the water isn't evaporating too quickly. If it is, turn the heat down a little and add more water.
Step9
Take the stocking out and throw it away.
Step10
Mix the two batches of colored water.

Tips & Warnings

  • Carrots will make a good, strong orange color.
  • Beet greens, mint leaves and lichens produce different greens.
  • Dandelion heads, mustard and peach leaves, and coffee beans create various yellows.
  • Red onion skins, tea leaves and some tree bark will give you a rich reddish-brown.
  • Experiment to produce the strongest colors.

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eHow Article:  How to Extract Natural Dyes

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