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HOW TO MAKE & USE A NATURAL DYE

Preparation

Roughly chop your foodstuff, place it in a large saucepan, and add enough water to cover it by 5cm.

Boil for 20 minutes to 1 hour to extract the dye. The time it takes depends on the foodstuff: avocado stones and skins need an hour; turmeric only 20 minutes.

• If using roots or bark to dye, soak overnight, then boil for 1 hour.

• For black beans, soak in water overnight, then strain – the liquid is the dye.

After boiling, leave to cool, then strain (unless you’ve used turmeric, which will dissolve). Retain the liquid and put the foodstuffs in the compost.

Dyeing the fabric

Soak the fabric or yarn in clean water to open up the fibres, which enables the stain to penetrate evenly.

Pour the liquid dye into a saucepan and add the fabric – add more water if necessary so the fabric can move around

freely. Bring to the boil and simmer for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to ensure an even colour.

Once done, leave to cool slightly, then gently squeeze to remove excess dye. Hang outside in the shade to dry (sunlight accelerates fading).

Fabric care

Use a pH-neutral soap and cold or low temperature settings if using a washing machine.

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2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-08-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://thisnzlife.pressreader.com/article/282084869786821

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