White Oak Gallnuts (Whole) – Tannin (Quercus infectoria)

White Oak Gallnuts (Whole) are a tannin-rich natural material widely used in natural dyeing—especially to pre-treat cotton and linen before mordanting and dyeing. A tannin bath helps mordants bond more effectively to cellulose fibers, producing cleaner, deeper, and more consistent shades.

Botanical name: Quercus infectoria (Aleppo oak)

Form: Whole gallnuts (crush before use)

Best for

Cotton & linen pre-treatment (cellulose fibers) for richer, more even results

Eco printing & botanical dyeing for improved clarity and contrast

Iron–tannin darks (grey to near-black tones)

Also usable on wool & silk, especially for iron–tannin and botanical dye workflows

How to use (quick guide)

Crush the gallnuts (whole form extracts more slowly than powder).

Scour your fabric thoroughly.

Prepare a tannin bath using 10% WOF (10 g gallnuts per 100 g fiber).

Soak until evenly saturated, then proceed to mordanting and dyeing as needed.

Tip: Strain the bath if you want a cleaner liquid.

Additional uses

Traditionally used as a tannin source and may also be used for experimental vegetable tanning / leather-related tannin processes (testing recommended).

Notes & storage

Natural batches may vary slightly. Store sealed in a cool, dry place. Avoid inhaling dust when crushing.

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