the “problem” with natural dyes

I have been having the best time experimenting and working with naturally dyed wool fibres. The colours are wonderful, soft, vibrant and all from plant materials.

Along the way I have tried planting and growing dye plants, purchased dried pant material and natural dye extracts.

So, after two years here is a synopsis:

Growing dye plants – weld, coreopsis and Buddleia grow well in my garden and produce a good colour.

Buddleia

A gorgeous citrus green that is reasonably lightfast

HOWEVER…

I prefer to use dye extracts as they produce the most vibrant colour.

Madder, Fustic, Indigo

Dye Fastness

The question of dye/light fastness comes up whenever I mention natural dyes.

WHY… we have used natural dyes for millennia.

Consider the magnificent textile artefacts we have inherited, that we marvel over in museums, historic homes, as carpets, embroideries, costumes, water colour paintings…all plant a based and steeped in tradition.

Turkish Carpet – Kayseri

Sadly we pay homage to eco living not love it.

I’ve set up a colour fastness test for my utterly yummy dyed wool fibres.

Dyed wool with and without UV protection

Review changes over the year October 2024 – 2025

Let us value materials, history and craftsmanship.

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful‘. William Morris