FAQs

What types of dyes does Naturaldye.us offer? Naturaldye.us offers a variety of natural dyes, including powdered dyes, extracts, and liquid options. We also provide raw natural dye materials such as roots, flowers, and insects .

What is the difference between dye extracts and raw dyes? Raw dyes are minimally processed plant parts or other natural sources that require extraction to release their color. Dye extracts are concentrated forms of dye that have already been extracted, making them easier to use and often providing more consistent results .

Do you sell liquid dyes? Yes, Naturaldye.us offers liquid dyes, which are pre-dissolved and ready for immediate use, making them convenient for quick projects and direct application techniques .

What kind of raw natural dye materials do you have in stock? We stock a range of raw natural dye materials, including ground madder root, whole cochineal insects, dried weld flowers, organically grown marigold flowers, ground oak galls, logwood chips, and more .

What colors can I achieve with madder root? Madder root can yield a beautiful deep yellow-based red. With modifications like adding a small amount of citric acid and calcium carbonate, you can achieve the richest shades. It’s also possible to get paler coral and orange shades by using less madder root . Madder extract can produce a range of shades from pale pink and peach to a deep, wine-colored red .

How much red dye do I need to dye a certain amount of fabric? For the deepest red shade with ground madder root, use 100g of madder root to dye 100g of fiber. You can use less for paler shades and may also get additional colors from exhaust dyebaths . For madder extract, 50g can dye approximately 750g of fiber to a dark red shade .

Can you tell me more about the history of madder? Madder is one of the most ancient dyes, known as the universal red. It has a long history of use in various cultures, including ancient civilizations in the Indus Valley, Egypt (as seen in Tutankhamun’s tomb), China, and the Andes . 

Why choose natural dyes over synthetic dyes? Natural dyes are an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes, which often contain petroleum-based chemicals and pollutants. They are biodegradable, non-toxic, and can produce unique, complex shades that synthetic dyes cannot easily replicate. Additionally, natural dyeing connects us to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices.

What kind of raw dye materials do you have in stock? We have a wide selection of raw dye materials in stock, including madder root for rich reds, indigo for deep blues, and weld for bright yellows. We also carry cutch for warm browns, walnut hulls for earthy tones, and sandalwood for soft reds. Our collection includes vibrant flower-based dyes like marigold and hibiscus, as well as cochineal for stunning pinks and purples

What do I need to get started with natural dyeing? To get started with natural dyeing, you will typically need natural dyes, mordants to help the dye adhere to the fabric, water, a heat source, and the fabric or yarn you wish to dye. Specific requirements may vary depending on the dye and technique you choose . 

Are natural dyes safe to use? Natural dyes are generally considered a safer alternative to petrochemical-based synthetic dyes . However, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear when working with any dye materials.

Are your dyes non-toxic? Our aim is to provide non-toxic natural dyes as a safer option for dyeing . We can provide safety data sheets for our dye products upon request .

What are mordants and assists, and why are they important? Mordants are substances used to prepare fibers to better absorb natural dyes, resulting in more vibrant and long-lasting colors. Assists can help modify the dye bath to achieve specific shades or improve the dyeing process .

How do I use natural dyes?
Using natural dyes typically involves a few key steps:

• Scouring – Cleaning the fabric to remove oils and residues.

• Mordanting – Preparing the fabric with a mordant (like alum or iron) to help the dye bond.

• Dyeing – Immersing the fabric in a dye bath and allowing it to absorb color.

• Finishing – Rinsing, drying, and curing the fabric for optimal colorfastness.
  We provide detailed instructions and tutorials to help you achieve the best results.

What fabrics work best with dyes? Natural fibers like cotton, linen, wool, silk, and hemp work best with natural dyes. Synthetic fibers like polyester do not absorb natural dyes well. Protein fibers (wool, silk) tend to take up dye more vibrantly than cellulose fibers (cotton, linen).

How do I care for naturally dyed fabrics?
To preserve naturally dyed fabrics:

• Wash gently in cold water with a mild pH-neutral detergent.

• Avoid harsh chemicals and excessive sunlight exposure.

• Air dry when possible to prevent fading.

• Store in a cool, dark place to maintain color vibrancy.

Will dyes fade over time? Some natural dyes are more lightfast than others. While dyes like indigo and madder are very durable, others may fade gradually, especially if exposed to sunlight and frequent washing. Proper mordanting and aftercare can extend the life of natural-dyed textiles.

How do I work with liquid dyes? To work with liquid dyes, first prepare your fabric by scouring and mordanting it (if needed) to improve dye absorption. Shake the dye bottle well, then mix it with warm water per the manufacturer’s instructions. Submerge the fabric in the dye bath, heat gently (120–180°F), and stir occasionally for even coloring. Let it soak for 30 minutes to an hour, then rinse with cold water until it runs clear. Air dry in the shade to prevent fading. You can modify colors using pH shifts (acidic for warmer tones, alkaline for cooler) or iron for darker shades. Always test on a small swatch first and store dyes in a cool, dark place for longevity. .

Can your dyes be used for purposes other than dyeing fabric? Yes! Liquid dyes can be used for a variety of creative projects beyond fabric dyeing. They work well for watercolor painting, paper staining, wood tinting, egg dyeing, and even coloring natural fibers like raffia or yarn. Some dyes are also used in handmade cosmetics, candles, or soaps (though always check for skin safety). Additionally, they can be incorporated into botanical prints or eco-dyeing techniques on paper and fabric. Experimentation is key—always test on a small sample first!

Can I request a custom dyeing service? We do offer custom dyeing services for specific projects. Please contact us with details about your fabric and desired colors, and we’ll discuss options for a custom dye job.