The global garment industry, known for its creativity and fashion innovation, is also one of the most environmentally damaging sectors. From water pollution to toxic chemical runoff, the conventional dyeing processes used in textiles contribute significantly to environmental degradation. However, a growing number of visionary designers and entrepreneurs are pioneering more sustainable practices, paving the way toward a climate-friendly future. One such approach is the use of natural dyeing—a technique that not only reduces environmental harm but also celebrates the beauty of nature.

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The Environmental Benefits of Natural Dyeing

Natural dyeing involves using plant-based ingredients to colour fabrics. Unlike synthetic dyes, which are laden with harmful chemicals, natural dyes are derived from renewable resources and are biodegradable. Here are some of the key environmental benefits of this ancient yet increasingly relevant practice:

Chemical-Free Process: Natural dyes do not contain harmful chemicals, making them safer for the environment and for the artisans who work with them. This reduces the risk of health issues often associated with synthetic dyeing processes, such as skin irritations and respiratory problems.

Efficient Water Management: The water used in natural dyeing can often be reused multiple times, minimizing the overall water consumption. Additionally, the leftover dye water can serve as a liquid fertilizer, enriching soil health rather than contaminating water sources.

Utilization of Kitchen Waste: One of the most innovative aspects of natural dyeing is its ability to repurpose kitchen waste. Onion peels, tea leaves, coffee grounds, avocado peels, and even rambutan and mangosteen skins can be transformed into vibrant dyes. This not only adds value to what would otherwise be discarded but also helps manage waste effectively.

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The Natural Dyeing Process

If you’re intrigued by this sustainable art form, here’s a basic guide to getting started with natural dyeing:

1. Preparation of Fabric: Begin by measuring the weight of the fabric you intend to dye. The fabric must first be scoured—this involves boiling it in water mixed with soap powder and baking soda. Allow the fabric to soak overnight or for at least six hours, then rinse it thoroughly.
2. Color Retention Treatment: To ensure that the natural dyes adhere well to the fabric and resist fading, treat the fabric with alum powder or bitter bark. Soak the fabric in a mixture of lukewarm water and alum for 2-3 hours, then rinse thoroughly.
3. Creating the Dye: In a large container, add enough water to submerge the fabric completely. Heat the water on the stove and add your chosen natural ingredients. Stir the mixture until the desired colour is achieved, which could take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the fabric's weight.
4. Dyeing the Fabric: Wet the prepared fabric thoroughly, then immerse it in the dye bath. Stir the fabric in the dye to ensure even colour absorption. Once the desired shade is achieved, remove the fabric from the dye bath and rinse with clean water.
5. Drying: Finally, dry the fabric in the shade to preserve the natural colour.

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The Colour Combination Guide 

The beauty of natural dyeing lies in the endless palette of colours that can be achieved from nature’s bounty. Here are some  examples of what you can create:

• Onion peels yield rich yellows and golds.
• Tea leaves provide a range of browns.
• Avocado peels produce soft pinks and peach tones.
• Rambutan and mangosteen skins offer earthy reds and purples.
• Tea leaves and iron powder create deep, dark browns.
• Coffee grounds result in rich, dark hues.

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EthicalX supporting local batik artisans in Horowpathana, Sri Lanka:

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On August 15th 2024, EthicalX, through our Regional Hub in Horowpathana, hosted a Natural Dyeing Workshop for local batik artisans. 

This capacity-building session focused on using environmentally-friendly natural dyes, aiming to empower fashion and apparel sector entrepreneurs with sustainable practices. The workshop was packed with hands-on activities, including practical demonstrations of new tie-dye techniques, colour testing, and the colour extraction process. 

We also provided training on climate and disaster risk management, tailored specifically to the needs of MSMEs.

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Further Reading

If this blog has sparked your interest in natural dyeing, there are several excellent resources available to deepen your knowledge:

• The Wild Dyer by Abigail Booth
• Natural Color by Sasha Duerr
• A Garden to Dye For by Chris McLaughlin

Natural dyeing is more than just a method of colouring fabric—it's a celebration of climate-friendly entrepreneurship methods, creativity, and the vibrant hues that nature provides. By choosing natural dyes, you contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the fashion industry and embrace a timeless craft that honours both the earth and the artisans who work with it.

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EthicalX: Climate & Innovation Hub is an initiative by SLYCAN Trust which supports ethical, sustainable, and climate-friendly entrepreneurship through activities related to capacity-building, provision of technical support and expertise, and raising seed funding with a special focus on vulnerable communities, women, and youth. EthicalX works towards building long-term climate resilience, sustainable development, and economic empowerment to scale up entrepreneurship development and support vulnerable communities, women and youth.