Crafting with natural materials can be a rewarding experience, especially when it comes to making your own dyes from plants. Not only does this process allow you to create beautiful and unique colors, but it also connects you with nature and promotes sustainability. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples of making natural dye from plants that you can easily do at home!
Turmeric is a vibrant yellow spice often found in kitchens, but did you know it can also be used to create a stunning natural dye? This bright color is perfect for fabrics, yarn, or even paper.
To make this dye, you’ll need:
Start by boiling the water in a pot. Once it’s boiling, add the turmeric powder, stir well, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The longer you simmer, the richer the color will be. After 30 minutes, strain the mixture to remove the powder. Now, dip your fabric or yarn into the dye bath. Let it soak for about 30 minutes, checking occasionally until you reach your desired color. Rinse it in cold water and let it dry. You’ll have a vibrant yellow piece!
Notes: You can adjust the intensity of the color by varying the amount of turmeric or soaking time. Also, turmeric can stain, so consider using gloves while handling.
Red onion skins are often discarded, but they can be transformed into a beautiful reddish-brown dye that works wonderfully on natural fabrics.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Begin by placing the onion skins in a pot with the water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour. The water will change to a rich color as the skins release their dye. After simmering, strain the mixture to discard the skins. Now, add your fabric or yarn to the dye bath and let it soak for 30-60 minutes, depending on how deep you want the color. Rinse the dyed fabric in cold water and dry it.
Variations: For a deeper hue, you can add more onion skins or extend the soaking time. Consider experimenting with different types of onion skins for varied shades.
Instead of throwing away avocado pits and skins, use them to produce a lovely pink dye! This dye works beautifully on cotton and silk fabrics.
You will need:
Start by chopping the avocado pits into smaller pieces and placing them, along with the skins, into a pot with water. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for about an hour. The longer you simmer, the more intense the color will become. Strain the dye to remove the solids, then add your fabric or yarn to the dye bath. Let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour, checking for your preferred shade. Once ready, rinse in cold water and allow it to dry.
Notes: The color can vary based on the type of avocado and the fabric you use. For a deeper shade, repeat the dyeing process or let your fabric soak longer.
These examples of making natural dye from plants not only enhance your crafting projects but also promote eco-friendly practices. By using everyday materials, you can create unique colors that tell a story and showcase your creativity. Happy dyeing!