Our bundle dye kit lets you create a one-of-a-kind silk shawl with bright madder reds and buckthorn yellows. Bundle dyeing is one of the easiest and most rewarding natural dyeing techniques: you sprinkle plant dye powders straight onto mordanted fabric, roll it into a bundle and steam it. The result is a unique, tie-dye-like pattern, and you need only small amounts of dye.
What is in the kit
Handwoven peace silk shawl, 40 x 180 cm (about 16 x 71 in)
A stock pot you do not use for cooking, and an old steamer basket or colander
Cotton string or rubber bands
A dust mask and gloves
How it works
Scour and mordant: wash the silk in hot water with pH-neutral soap, then soak it in alum (10–15% of the fabric weight) for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight.
Design: lay the damp shawl flat and sprinkle the madder and buckthorn powders where you want color. Buckthorn is very strong, so use it sparingly.
Bundle: roll the shawl tightly and tie it with string so the powders stay in contact with the silk.
Steam: steam the bundle for 45–60 minutes, then let it rest for at least 24 hours.
Unwrap, rinse and wash in cool water with pH-neutral soap. Iron on low while damp.
Yes. Bundle dyeing needs no exact recipe or dye bath, so it is one of the easiest ways to start natural dyeing.
How much dye do I need for bundle dyeing?
Very little. The powders are applied directly to the fabric, so a small sprinkle gives strong color. The kit includes 100 g each of madder and buckthorn.
Can I bundle dye cotton instead of silk?
Yes, but treat the cotton with a tannin before the alum mordant for stronger colors.
