The Art and Science of Natural Dyes: Principles, Experiments, and Results

by Joy Boutrup, Catharine Ellis

This long-awaited guide serves as a tool to explain the general principles of natural dyeing, and to help dyers to become more accomplished at their craft through an increased understanding of the process. Photos of more than 450 samples demonstrate the results of actual dye tests, and detailed information covers every aspect of natural dyeing including theory, fibers, mordants, dyes, printing, organic indigo vats, finishing, and the evaluation of dye fastness. Special techniques of printing and discharging indigo are featured as well. The book is intended for dyers and printers who wish to more completely understand the "why" and the "how," while ensuring safe and sustainable practices. Written by a textile engineer and chemist (Boutrup) and a textile artist and practitioner (Ellis), its detailed and tested recipes for every process, including charts and comparisons, make it the ideal resource for dyers with all levels of experience.

Genres: Nonfiction, Crafts

176 pages, Spiral-bound

Published January 28, 2019

Reviews

[Roan Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

An invaluable resource, bringing sense to the often seemingly mystical ways in which natural dyes work. Considering all the technical information about natural dyes that we have lost over generations, this is as good a place as any to start learning it again.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent in-depth reference for Natural Dyers, with a solid scientific approach to the art. I've always been one to let serendipity take the front seat, but having handy recipes for mordanting and modifiying is invaluable. Love and admire the work of these two talented women.

[Samantha Adams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is basically a textbook about natural dyeing. I read it from cover to cover. It is an invaluable resource that I will return to again and again. Highly recommend this book for anyone on the natural dyeing journey. 10/10