Learn How to Mordant; A Key Step In Natural Dyeing
Learn how to mordant, the second step in the natural dyeing process (or 3rd step if you use a tannin which is often optional but can help significantly; video to come on this process)!
Mordanting is the most important step in preparing fibers to accept color. The mordant helps create a strong bond between the fiber & the natural dye.
Mordants are mineral salts that fix with the fiber allowing natural dyes to bond to it, allowing for the most durable & long-lasting colors.
Here I am preparing linen for natural dyeing by using alum lactate, my personal mordant of choice in working with cellulose fibers.
Supplies needed:
Pot
Fibers
Long stirring utensil
Gloves
Mask
Rag
Water
Mordant
Kitchen scale
Thermometer
Small dish & spoon
Steps:
- Wet out your fibers
- Soak them in water for 2+ hours
- Fill pot with hot water & place on the stove
- Weigh out 10% Weight of fabric (WOF) of mordant
- Take the weight of your fabric & x it by 0.10 to get the Grams needed of mordant
- Dissolve mordant in hot water completely
- Add mordant to dye pot & mix well
- Add fabric
- Turn heat on high & put lid on
- Stir every 10-15 minutes & bring heat up to 180-200F & keep it there for an hour
- Turn heat off & let cool
- Once cool enough to touch take out & rinse well (2-3 rinses)
- Either hang fabric to dry & store until ready to dye OR
- keep fabric in bucket of water until ready to dye it that same day or next day
Yay your fabric is now mordanted & ready to be dyed!
Once fabric is mordanted you will not need to repeat that step, it can be stored for a long while & be good!
find full in depth video with guidance and extra tips & tricks on YouTube channel; linked at the bottom of my website or look up @SownOfTheEarth
videos & blog on dyeing coming soon stay tuned <3
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