A complete illustrated guide to natural dyeing, for beginners and veteran dyers seeking to expand their knowledge of this popular craft—including foraging, simple stitch techniques, and delightful, achievable projects.
"Beautifully photographed, chock full of helpful information, and includes instructions not only for dye processes but also beautiful and utilitarian sewing projects, like aprons, bags and placemats, that utilize your newly dyed fabric." —
The Maine Organic Farmer and Gardener
From London-based Forest + Found studio co-founder Abigail Booth,
The Wild Dyer
offers a deep dive into natural dyes—colors and pigments that are derived from plants and minerals. Nature’s bounty, like onion and avocado skins, chamomile and birch bark, and nettles and acorns can produce lovely, ethereal colors and effects. Here, Booth demystifies the eco-conscious art and craft of natural dyeing, comprehensively covering topics such as:
Foraging and growing dying plants from seed
Repurposing kitchen trimmings
Making and using long-lasting dyes
Workspace setup and equipment
Fabric choices and care
Creating stitched projects
Vibrant color photos accompany the text throughout, and easy-to-follow instructions illustrate how to make eight exquisite household items, from a drawstring bag to a gardener's smock to a reversible patchwork blanket and more. A must-have for natural dying enthusiasts, this guidebook also makes an outstanding gift for crafters and textile artists, including quilters, knitters, and weavers, inspired by the unique beauty and subtlety of natural dyes.