How to Extract Dye From Fruit

For deep reds and purples, as well as faint pinks and lavenders, turn to Mother Nature.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old Nylon Stockings
• Fruits
• Mixing Bowls
• Potato Mashers
• Stockpots
• Fruits
• Mixing bowls

1. Crush berries or grapes in a bowl with a potato masher.

2. Hold a nylon stocking over a stockpot half full of water.

3. Pour the crushed fruit, seeds and juice into the stocking and tie the top in a knot.

4. Soak the fruit for 8 to 12 hours.

5. Bring the water (and fruit) to a boil for about an hour.

6. Fish out the stocking.

7. Use the water for dyeing. You can either use it full strength or dilute it for paler effects.

Tips & Warnings

• Not all fruits will work. Try fleshy fruits or berries, which work best.

[uniquechoices]

on 5/25/2009 Great tips on how to extract dyes from fruit.

[pjsmomi]

on 5/25/2009 Any suggestions on what fruit would work best for a pink color?