Naturally dyed yarns

Frequently Asked Questions

• 01Why use natural dyes? + ×

  Natural dyeing has historically been a social and cultural practice which we aim to preserve. The process of natural dyeing involves practices and the use of dye materials that have been passed down in different cultures over the years.
  Natural dyeing also creates a one-of-a-kind product where each dyer has their unique fingerprint. Due to the differences in natural materials, the quality of water in our geographical area, the type of fibres we use, and even our methods, we can create a colour palette which is difficult to replicate.
  The sustainability of natural dyes is an added benefit compared to synthetic dyeing, which is one of the major contributors to wastewater pollution.

• 02Do natural dyes fade over time? + ×

  All natural dyes fade over time with exposure to:
  - Washing (especially with warm water and agitation)
  - Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
  - Rubbing and friction
  Some natural dyes are more susceptible to fading than others. Please send us an enquiry if you wish to know more.

• 03What is colourfastness? + ×

  Colourfastness is an umbrella term used to describe a dyed product’s resistance to fading. Test methods for this are covered by the International Standards Organisation (ISO) under ISO 105. Test methods range from washing, to sweat and exposure to light. ISO test methods have results ranging from 1–5, with goods of a “5” quality having no noticeable change to colour.

• 04How do we know that colours from your yarns won’t fade? + ×

  There is no guarantee that our natural dyes will not fade over time. If colourfastness is the primary reason for the purchase of the dyed products, natural dyeing will not be an optimal choice.
  However, we have chosen to work with natural dyes on the following basis to ensure quality and consistency of the product:
  - Achieves at least 4/5 rating on ISO test methods according to research
  - Has proven affinity with the fibre type
  - The dye material has been known to be widely used for commercial goods before synthetic dyeing was available (Fun fact: there were regulations on the type of dye materials which were allowed in France and a manufacturer could be fined for using a “fugitive” dye.)

• 05What is your typical natural dyeing process? + ×

  A typical skein may take approximately 16 days to a month before they are ready to order depending on the colours required.
  We use the following natural dye process:
  1. Initial scouring or cleaning of the fibre
  2. Indigo dips and oxidisation followed by a 2-week ageing period out of sunlight (for our blues, greens and purples)
  3. Tannin bath (for cotton)
  4. Cold mordant (use of a metallic salt for the natural dyes to bind to the fibre)
  5. Extraction of dye material in water
  6. We dilute the dye extraction in a larger dye bath. Each product is dyed for approximately 1–2 hours before being rinsed and dried off. Depending on the colour requirements, a second shading bath may be used.
  7. Our products are stored out of sunlight for another 2-week period before they are ready for use.

• 06Are your crochet accessories and apparel made from your naturally dyed yarns? + ×

  Some of our accessories and apparel are not made from the naturally dyed range as they use a different fibre type from our production. We choose fibre types for our accessories and apparel based on the function in the project (e.g. to create a specific look or a better fit when worn).
  With our bags, we prefer using a cotton warp thread with a high ply count, which is very difficult to source. We have found this specific warp thread to provide the structure and strength necessary for a tote bag to function and carry everyday items. We aim to release products from our naturally dyed yarn range over time.

• 07What is your inspiration for your accessories and apparel? + ×

  We strive to bring a new look or twist to crochet accessories and apparel. While this is sometimes considered an “old person’s hobby”, it doesn’t have to look like one! We draw inspiration from nature and other cultures to create these items. Many East Asian cultures like Korea and Japan have adopted crochet in more recent years and they have a very different approach to the craft.

• 08Will you be releasing new stock of the same accessories and apparel? + ×

  No. Each accessory and apparel release is limited. As each project is handmade, we stop producing older accessories to make way for new designs. If you missed out on an item which you would love to have, not to worry – we will work on patterns on popular projects.

• 09How long does each piece take you to complete? + ×

  Time to complete each accessory depends on the yarn size, overall project size and the design. Small projects like a scrunchie may take up to 2 hours to complete while a top might take up to 2 weeks.