What are natural dyes?
When I tell people I am a natural dyer their reaction is normally one of utter bewilderment as despite natural dyes existing since 10,000 BC they remain relatively unknown to the masses. As you’ve found yourself here, I think it’s safe to assume that you are someone who is eco-conscious and keen to find new ways of reducing your impact on the planet as well as your general well-being. If this is the case then natural dyes are really something that you’ll want to learn more about so here is what you need to know.
Whole dyestuffs and extracts
Colour can be extracted from literally thousands of natural substances such as plants, insects and minerals. The widest spectrum of colour derives from the roots, stalks, flowers, berries, nuts, wood, bark and seeds of plants. The pigment and tannins in these plants produce natural colour.
“Dyeing with natural substances is an adventure in colour”
Natural dyes can be used as whole dyestuffs and extracts. Whole dyestuffs are sources directly from the plant, lichen, insect or fungi. They can be used fresh or dried. Extracts come from natural materials and are concentrated powders or liquids.
Dyeing with natural substances is an adventure in colour and one for those with an open mind. Two plants of the same species can produce different colours depending on the age, soil and weather conditions of the plant’s growth. The variety of outcome makes natural dye an exploration of colour and full of surprises!
History of Natural Dyes
“It is believed that natural dyes have been used simultaneously around the world for approximately 10,000 BC.”
It is believed that natural dyes have been used simultaneously around the world for approximately 10,000 BC. Evidence from this period shows natural pigments being used as paints. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to trace when natural pigments were used to dye textiles as textiles are perishable. The earliest record of natural dyes being used was in China in 2600 BC. In the mid-1800s the red pigment found in the roots of the madder plant (one of our favourite dyestuffs) was synthesised into a man-made dye. These synthetic dyes grew in popularity due to their ease of use and availability meaning that they soon largely replaced natural dyes across the world.
So Synthetic Dyes Are Better?
Synthetic dyes are definitely not superior to natural dyes. Just because synthetic dyes are widely used commercially does not make them the better option and here is why:
Synthetic Dyes are Detrimental to the Environment
Manufacturing using synthetic dyes uses a considerable amount of water. There is also the issue of the waste water which contains toxic pollutants and much of it ends up in the local ecosystems.
Negative Impact on the Health of the Workers
The individuals working with the synthetic dyes complain of respiratory issues, skin diseases and other chronic health issues which are directly linked to the chemicals in the dyes.
Flat One Dimensional Colour
Synthetic dyes contain one or two single pigments whereas natural dyes contain many colour particles creating fully dimensional and complementary colours rather than the harsh effect that you can get with synthetic dyes.
In Summary
“There is something so wonderful about surrounding yourself with colours from your own environment. Bringing nature closer to you wherever you are.”
As we are becoming more aware of how our garments are being produced, we can begin to change our behaviour to support better alternatives such as supporting local artists using natural dyes, learning to use natural dyes ourselves and building momentum in their awareness as a viable alternative to traditional synthetic dyes. Natural dyes are kinder on the environment and on the purse strings. They can be found in your kitchen, garden and in your local park. There is something so wonderful about surrounding yourself with colours from your own environment. Bringing nature closer to you wherever you are.
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