HOW IT’S MADE

Eco-dyeing is the process of extracting the pigments from plants, leaves, and flowers to create prints on paper. The process involves bundling plant materials and paper and boiling the bundle to transfer the color and patterns from the plants to the paper. The exact method and materials used can vary, but the result is a beautifully unique print that captures nature’s beauty.

MATERIALS:

    • Rust pot

    • Cardstock or watercolor paper

    • Gloves

    • Apron

    • White vinegar

    • Botanicals

    • String or rubber bands

MY TECHNIQUE

To make a rust pot:

Soak rusty metal in a pot with vinegar and water for several days. After soaking, bring the pot to a boil.

Pick your botanicals

Prepare the paper by soaking it in a solution of alum

Arrange your botanicals on the paper, layering as you go

After arranging and layering, press them between two block of wood or tile and tie a string firmly around the bundle to keep everything in place. You can also use rubber bands.
Put the bundle in the rust pot and boil for three hours.

After boiling, remove the bundle from the pot and let it cool for several hours to overnight

After the bundle has cooled, carefully cut the strings and the lay papers flat to dry

The unveiling of these one-of-a-kind images is both captivating and extraordinary!