The art of dyeing goes back to the Neolithic period. I often wonder how people developed different skills and methods. Some might happen by accident but then on the other hand there are no accidents. It was meant to be.I was introduced to natural dyes in 1978 while attending a 5 month live in course in sustainability in particular with reference to wind and solar energy, utilising bio gas, growing organic gardens and following a vegetarian diet. First I learned to spin which was as fascinating as any alchemy in the world transforming a fibre like wool into a thread that could then be knitted, woven, stitched, platted or crochet. I was spellbound and my imagination got on a rollercoaster creating masterpieces in my mind and I could hardly wait to get my hands on some … [Read more...] about The Alchemist – a Natural Dyer’s Journal
natural dye
Natural Dyes – Purple Carrot
Natural Dyes – Tumeric
Natural Dyes
I got hooked on Natural Dyes in 1978. I still love it. I am impressed by nature and the way nature provides all we need. I used Pomegranate, brown onion skin and purple carrot for this recipe. Slice Pomegranate and soak in water overnight. Boil for 20 minutes together with brow onion skin. Cool the bath. Layer and wrap wet silk fabric, wool fabric and yarns, maybe a few doilies around a small poly pipe. Add the sliced purple carrot in between layers. Tie the fabric “parcel” to keep carrot in place. Add ½ tea spoon of alum to the dye bath. Bring water to 90 degrees C for 20 minutes. Leave “parcel” in pot to cool overnight. You can also add rusty bottle tops and nails to the dye pot or even wrap it in the fabric for interesting effect. Make sure you tie the fabric together so that the … [Read more...] about Natural Dyes