Do-It-Yourself: Natural Linen Dyes
Do-It-Yourself:
Natural Linen Dyes
How-To and Photos by Jenn Bakos
Dyeing your own linens and other fabrics is a fun way to spruce up old items or experiment with new colors using things found in nature. Natural dyes are safe and easy! You can use beets, turmeric, red cabbage, and many more ingredients to create an array of colors.
Ingredients
- Cloth made of natural fibers
- (Cotton and linen are perfect)
- Approximately 2 cups of your plant or vegetable (or whatever you are using to dye – some may be less than others).
- ½ cup white vinegar
- large pot(large enough to hold whatever you are dyeing)
- Water
Method
Fill your pot ¾ of the way full with water. Add your vegetable and bring to a boil. Simmer for an hour on low and then add the vinegar to help the dye adhere. Once your dye pot is done and cooled, put your cloth in, making sure it is fully submerged. Let soak for 2 hours or even over night. Wring dry and air dry or tumble dry, the heat will help the color set.
