Natural Dye Extracts

Natural dye extracts are concentrated plant dyes: the coloring compounds are extracted from the raw plant and dried into a fine, water-soluble powder. You use far less material than with whole dye stuff, there is no straining, and results are easier to repeat from batch to batch. Our range covers madder extract for reds, weld extract and buckthorn extract for yellows, natural indigo extract for blues, and acorn and red pine bark tannin extracts for browns.

Why choose dye extracts?

  • Efficient: a few grams color a whole garment, which keeps shipping weight and storage low.
  • Consistent: ideal for studios and small brands that need repeatable shades.
  • Versatile: use them for immersion dyeing, eco printing, painting with thickened dye and natural inks.

How to use natural dye extracts

Dissolve the extract in hot water, add it to the dye bath and stir well before adding pre-mordanted, wet fiber. Typical amounts range from 1–10% of the dry fiber weight depending on the depth of shade. Prepare wool and silk with alum, and cotton or linen with a tannin and alum. Modifiers from our dye assists range shift shades further.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a dye extract and raw dye?

Raw dyes are the whole or ground plant; extracts are the concentrated color. Extracts need less material and no straining, while raw dyes give more complex, layered shades.

Can I mix natural dye extracts?

Yes. Mix extracts in the same bath or overdye: indigo with weld gives greens, madder with buckthorn gives oranges.

Are extracts suitable for eco printing?

Yes. Extracts can be painted onto mordanted fabric or added to the blanket in bundle and eco printing.

Explore more: All Natural Dyes · Natural Dye Kits

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