Sustainable Colors
Turmeric
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Turmeric is an ancient spice that has been valued for centuries for its use in food and medicine. It contains the chemical compound curcumin, which supplies powerful anti-inflammatory properties as well as a vibrant yellow color.
The turmeric plant grows to about 3 feet in height and consists of a flower and a rhizome- a root-like stem that grows underground and is harvested for the yellow turmeric spice. The rhizomes are commonly dehydrated and ground into powder to be sold.Turmeric grows in tropical regions, but has been produced and used for its medicinal properties in India since ancient times.
By 800 AD, cultivation and trade of turmeric had spread across much of Asia and Africa. Turmeric holds cultural as well as medicinal value and is seen as sacred and auspicious in the Hindu religion. Turmeric has been used as a natural dye for centuries and has historically been used to achieve the yellow tone of the robes of Buddhist monks.
When used to dye fabric, turmeric can produce a range of yellows from pale yellow to a deep golden tone.
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This dye will work best on natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, and on light colored and undyed fabric.
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Soak your fabric in a pot of warm water.
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Create a vinegar mordant by bringing 4 liters of water and 1 cup of white vinegar to a boil.
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Add 4 tablespoons of turmeric and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Place your fabric into the dye pot and let it boil for about an hour. Let the fabric simmer for longer if you desire a darker or more vibrant tone.
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For a tie dye effect, scrunch or twist your fabric into a ball and secure it with several rubber bands before submerging it in the dye.
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Remove the dye pot from the heat and let cool.
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Remove your fabric from the dye and rinse under cold water then hang to dry.
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Turmeric dye will fade over time so be sure to hand wash it or wash it alone or with like colors in cold water.
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