Color Theory: Natural Dyes on Fabric

My favourite films are the historical, period pieces. Working in the film industry these past few years, I've had the opportunity to research the history of color and textiles. I was watching "Outlander" on Netflix a few months ago and they recalled a time in 18th- century Scotland, when groups of women would dye and mordant (a process to adhere the dye to fibre) clothing on a huge table together. These and other dye methods have been used for centuries, and they are eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

Chemical dyes have been leaking into our water systems for decades, and what are we doing about it? Why do we continue to use harmful substances, and when will we stop hurting our planet?

As we focus in on what makes our brand sustainable, the idea of using chemical dyes is no longer an option for us to support. Though reclaimed textiles may already hold dyes from previous manufacturing, we want to be clean and clear on every element in our production going forward. Currently our colour development is in process. Here's a sneak peak:

Did you know you can grow dye colors in your backyard? This past summer we made dyes from our own garden and nature walks. Flowers such as marigolds, calendulas, hydragae, foraged moss (lichen), and dandelions were some of the few local plants we used. There is also natural color found in household waste: such as onion skins, avocado skins, coffee, and tea. It takes some experimentation to find the right combination of color that will adhere and "fix" to a textile. Research and trial and error required! The process is slow ....and rewarding; it's an amazing feeling to plant a seed, watch it grow, and then harvest what you have sown (and make something beautiful with it!).

Our garments have yet to be dyed... can't wait to share the results with all of you! Our launch goes live in April... we will keep you posted with collection updates, early bird pricing, and giveaways!

Lastly, we are creating a Natural Dye blog, releasing this May! Subscribe to our newsletter to receive your free copy and share with others! 

Thanks for reading, feel free to message and comment below!

xo

-Jessica