Learn how to make beautiful, natural dyes from dried or fresh plants. Use these stunning dyes steeped in plant and color magic for fabrics, magical inks, and potions.
A large variety of dyes can be made from easy to find household items like leftover onion peels, spices, and even grass. Have fun experimenting with different materials, but remember that natural dyes will turn out a little differently each time. Natural dyes need to refrigerated and are not intended to last as long as store bought dyes, so I prefer to make small batches and use them as needed. I like to wear gloves and clothes that can get stained, since working with dyes can be messy.
ITEMS NEEDED
plants, herbs, or spices of various colors
pot of water
strainer or cheesecloth to strain
gloves *optional
storage containers *optional
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a pot, add about 2x the amount of water per plant matter.
2. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer about one hour (or until desired color is reached). While the water simmers, recite the incantation.
"Magic of plants simmer and steep,
Turn this water into ink,
For spells, dyes, and enchanted drinks."
3. Remove from heat and strain out plant material.
4. Use immediately or store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
LIST OF COMMON PLANT DYES
Strawberries, cherries, Lavender, beets, rhubarb, red cabbage – pink
Orange peel and lemon peel, onion skins, saffron, turmeric (be careful with saffron and turmeric bc it stains counters very quickly!!!) – orange, yellow
Coffee/tea – brown
Blueberries – purple
Blue butterfly pea flower - blue
Spinach, green lettuce – green
Darker red – red fall leaves
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