Raw Natural Dyes

Raw natural dyes are dye plants in their traditional form: roots, seeds, petals, hulls and peels, dried whole or ground into powder. They give rich, complex colors that many dyers prefer to extracts. Our raw dyes include madder root powder, weld powder, buckthorn seed powder and whole buckthorn seeds, pomegranate peel powder, black walnut hull powder, safflower petals and dried onion skins.

Colors you can make

Madder gives pinks, corals and deep reds; weld and dyer’s buckthorn give clear yellows; pomegranate gives golden yellows and, with iron, khaki and grey; walnut gives warm browns; onion skins give orange and rust. Combine them with indigo for greens and purples.

How to use raw dye plants

Soak the dye material, then simmer it gently to extract the color and strain before adding your fiber, or put powders in a cloth bag. A common starting point is 50–100% of the dry fiber weight for whole plants and less for powders. Mordant first with alum, and for cotton and linen add a tannin step.

Frequently asked questions

Powder or whole dye plants?

Powders release color faster and need less heat; whole and cut material is easier to strain and can be reused for paler exhaust baths.

How should I store raw natural dyes?

Keep them dry, sealed and away from direct sunlight. Stored this way, most dried dye plants keep their color for years.

Can I buy raw natural dyes in bulk?

Yes, in 1, 5 and 25 kg bags. See our wholesale page.

Explore more: Natural Dye Extracts · All Natural Dyes

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