Equipment for Dyeing with Plants

In this post we take a closer look at the equipment needed for dyeing fabric with plants. In Tooling up to Dye, we got a broad overview of the equipment needed. This time we'll zero in on several key areas.

Following is a list of items that you need for setting up your dyeing studio, based on my experience. If you come up with some more ideas, let me know.

• Well-ventilated work space (outside is ideal)
• Heat source (gas camp stove, electric burners, charcoal grill, or open wood fire)
• Large pans for boiling water (copper, stainless steel, aluminum)
• Lots of water (if necessary, use pH strips to test for acidity/alkalinity)
• Several plastic buckets of various sizes for rinsing or soaking fabric
• Scouring supplies (such as washing soda, Borax, or Dawn dish washing detergent)
• Mordants:
• Plant-based fiber: tannins, salt, vinegar, baking soda, alum (and cream of tartar)
• Protein-based fiber: iron, copper, tin, chrome, alum (and cream of tartar)
• Cheese cloth, sieves, strainers, funnels
• Several basins and containers to use for soaking, extracting, straining
• Large metal spoons or wooden sticks for stirring
• Large jars for storing dye and mordant solution
• Fiber or fabric for dyeing (either plant-based or protein based):
• Plant- or cellulose-based fiber: cotton, linen, jute, and hemp
• Protein-based fiber: wool, mohair, angora, and silk
• Scale for weighing fabric, mordant, and dye
• Glass and plastic cups or containers for measuring water and liquids
• Dye source (harvested from nature, or purchased)
• Mortar and pestle, food grinder, or old blender for masticating dye source
• Protective gear (dust and vapor masks, waterproof and heat-resistant gloves, splash-proof apron, and covered shoes)

Ideally, store your tools and supplies in an easy-to-access spot, so you can dye whenever the time is right!