What are the different types of fabrics that can be dyed with natural dyes?

What are the different types of fabrics that can be dyed with natural dyes?

Natural dyes can be used on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, wool, and linen. Each fabric type reacts differently to the dyes.

Are there specific natural dyes that work best with certain fabrics?

Yes, for example, silk takes well to dyes like madder and indigo, while cotton can be dyed effectively with turmeric and cochineal.

How do I prepare fabric for natural dyeing?

Preparing fabric involves washing it to remove any finishes, soaking it in a mordant solution, and then rinsing it before dyeing.

Can I use natural dyes on synthetic fabrics?

Natural dyes generally work best on natural fibers. Synthetic fabrics may not absorb the dyes well, but some can be treated to improve dye uptake.

What are some common natural dye sources?

Common sources include plants like indigo, madder, and onion skins, as well as insects like cochineal.