This book is for the gatherer, the gardener, and the dye maker all rolled up into one. Harvesting Color: How to Find Plants and Make Natural Dyes was written by Rebecca Burgess, and published by Artisan (New York, 2011). It is filled with information about the basics of dyeing fiber, and obtaining dyestuff either through growing or gathering it yourself.
Part One provides information for getting started, including materials, tools of the trade, and master dye recipes. Part Two walks through the seasons showing plant material the can be gathered through the four seasons of summer, fall, winter, and spring. Pictures of plant material are frequently juxtaposed with pictures of dyed wool or fabric in stunning colors. The Appendix provides an extensive resource guide, including these West Coast sources for scouring agents, mordants, and dyes:
This book is full of inspirational ideas, recipes, and examples. I appreciated Burgess's emphasis on finding and growing dye sources locally, and her environmental concerns about the dyeing and clothing industries.
Part One provides information for getting started, including materials, tools of the trade, and master dye recipes. Part Two walks through the seasons showing plant material the can be gathered through the four seasons of summer, fall, winter, and spring. Pictures of plant material are frequently juxtaposed with pictures of dyed wool or fabric in stunning colors. The Appendix provides an extensive resource guide, including these West Coast sources for scouring agents, mordants, and dyes:
- Washington:
- Botanical Colors: http://botanicalcolors.com
- Earthues: www.earthues.com
- British Columbia:
- Maiwa: www.maiwa.com
This book is full of inspirational ideas, recipes, and examples. I appreciated Burgess's emphasis on finding and growing dye sources locally, and her environmental concerns about the dyeing and clothing industries.
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