Sumac Leaf Powder | Tannin Extract

Name: Sumac powder

Scientific Name: Rhus Coriaria

Our sumac is commonly known as Sicilian sumac, or tanner’s sumac, from its use in the treatment of leather.  Sumac leaves are high in tannins and can be used in the process of mordanting cellulose fibers such as cotton and linen.  Our sumac powder can contain as much as 20-30% tannic acid by dry weight.  

Historical use of sumac leaf tannin:

Sumac fruits have been traditionally used as a spice in Middle Eastern cuisine to impart a citrus flavour.  Its leaf tannin and its roots were used in the manufacture of leather, in the tanning process.  With iron, it gives mauve to purple tones, so when it was shipped for the leather trade, its packing needed to be considered carefully so neighbouring cargoes did not become stained by powder escaping from sacks.  

How to use sumac leaf powder:

NOTE:  some people have an allergic reaction to sumac, so it should be used with caution.  It is recommended that you should wear gloves and a mask when handling the powder, and carry out the heating process outdoors.

Ensure your fiber/fabric has been properly scoured before use.  Mix the sumac leaf powder with water in a pan, bring to the boil and simmer for an hour.  Allow 40g powder per 100g fiber/fabric.  Strain the liquid into a vessel such as a plastic bucket which is large enough to accommodate the fiber/fabric easily, add more hot water so there is sufficient for the fiber/fabric to be stirred around easily.  Dampen the fiber/fabric and add to the sumac bath.  Leave overnight to infuse and cool, stirring occasionally to ensure even uptake of the tannin.   

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How do we ship your order?  

We ship our natural dyes worldwide. Once you enter your address, you can see the shipping cost to your country. We ship with express delivery which means we use TNT, UPS, or DHL carriers. 

Please keep in mind that the shipping cost is calculated on the basis of weight including packaging, so it may be beneficial to order more than one product at a time.  You will pay the same shipping fee for 400g of products as for 100g.

Buying sumac powder in bulk:

We sell sumac powder in small quantities as shown on our website. Please be aware that we also sell bulk quantities wholesale. We consider every order over 50kg as wholesale and we offer discounted prices.  To enquire about this, click here. 

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