Natural Color from the Garden

I gave a talk at the 2026 Northwest Flower and Garden Festival in Seattle on using natural color or rather creating plant dyes and colors from garden plants. It is not a new concept or practice but one that is trending this year as we discover or rediscover ways to use our garden plants. This year at the show there was a “dye garden” on display with naturally dyed ribbons that could be used to tie on an arbor and honor a loved one. There was also lots of buzz around the oscar nominated movie “Hamnet” where many of the costumes were plant dyed. Here is the info sheet that I prepared for the show and I hope you try using your plants this season to add more color into your life!

     We have been using natural color for thousands of years, dating back to Egyptian times and maybe even before? Synthetic colors were created in the late 19th century, and until that point creating colors was done with plants and natural dyes. Today this craft is gaining in popularity again and it is a wonderful way to use and connect with your garden plants. The good news is you don’t need any special equipment just time. Here are the basics to get you started:

Plant Dyeing Basics

You need basic kitchen equipment: Pots, strainers, bowls, jars, spoons. I like to use glass and stainless steel and have dedicated a pot for my plant dyeing projects. Some people like aluminum but note it will react with some of your plants and could change the color.

Scour: Wash your fabric in a pH neutral detergent.

Mordants: Use a natural salt to prepare your fabric for dyeing. The most common one is Alum, but you may also use soy milk, cream of tartar, baking soda or skip this step. Feel free to experiment with swatches and keep a journal so you can recreate colors you like.

Dyeing:  Add fresh or dried plant material to a pot and cover with water. Heat gently (never use high heat) and allow the color to develop. When you are happy with the color strain (optional) and add your fabric directly to the dye bath. Let the fabric soak for a few hours or a few days depending on the desired shade. Note: Wet colors will appear darker.

Steam dyeing is another way to color fabrics. Rollup dried or fresh flowers and leaves and place on the top rack of a steamer pot. When you see the colors seeping through remove and unroll. Each one will be a unique creation.

Watercolors, paints, and inks: You can use your dye as natural paints and inks for art projects. Create different shades by adding a bit of lemon juice, cream of tartar, baking soda or vinegar to your dye. All of the above colors were made from red rose petals.

Have a beautiful day and let me know if you try using your plants for natural dyes and colors. It can be a fun creative afteroon or turn into a lifestyle. Xoxo Janice