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Ever wondered how to grow bluebonnets, collect rainwater or create a garden that attracts wildlife? The articles listed below contain a wealth of information that will help you transform your yard into a Native Plant landscape.

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How to make and use natural dyes

Step 1: Research local natural sources used for dyeing. Make note of the dye source’s toxicity to ensure the plant is not poisonous.

Step 2: Roots, flowers, fruits, or insects can be used for pigment. Recipes vary depending on the dye source and fiber being dyed.

Step 3: Female cochineal insects are often found on prickly pear cactus. They also can be purchased and used dried.

Step 4: Place dye source in boiling water in a color-safe pot and keep in a well-ventilated area. Simmer for one hour. Remove solids.

Step 5: Lower clean fiber into the dye bath. Pre-treating with mordants or color fixatives can affect the color’s intensity. Rinse, dry, and label.

 Step 6: Appreciate. Learning about dyeing with natural pigments can reconnect us to our environment and the natural world.

 

Photography by In Churl Yo. Text by Flo Oxley. This step-by-step was adapted from Wildflower magazine.
 

Bibliography

Dyes from American Native Plants: A Practical Guide (2005) Richards, L.; R. J. Tyrl

Dyes from nature (1990) Buchanan, R.

Edible and Useful Plants of Texas and the Southwest :including recipes, harmful plants, natural dyes, and textile fibers: A Practical Guide (1999) Tull, D.

Weaver's Garden : Growing Plants for Natural Dyes and Fibers (1999) Buchanan, R.

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