Botanical Dyes

The hidden dangers of synthetic dyes

Synthetic dyes, commonly used in the textile industry, often contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the skin and the environment. Notably, azo dyes, which account for a large percentage of dyes used globally, can break down to release aromatic amines upon contact with the skin. These compounds have been linked to skin allergies, dermatitis and even cancer. Moreover, the production and application of synthetic dyes involve various toxic substances, including heavy metals and formaldehyde-based agents, which can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. The discharge of dye-laden wastewater into rivers and streams poses severe environmental hazards, contributing to pollution and affecting ecosystems.

Our commitment to botanical dyes

In light of these concerns, we have embraced botanical dyes derived from natural sources such as leaves, flowers, roots and bark. This choice aligns with our mission to create beautiful, vibrant textiles without compromising the health of our customers or the planet.

The process of botanical dyeing

Sourcing natural ingredients: The local company in Bali that we work with carefully selects plant materials known for their rich pigmentation, sourcing locally whenever possible to minimise the environmental footprint.

Preparing the fabric: Our fabrics undergo a pre-treatment with natural mordants like alum or tannins to ensure the dye bonds effectively, enhancing colourfastness without introducing harmful chemicals.

Creating the dye bath: The plant materials are processed to extract their pigments, resulting in a dye bath that imparts unique, earthy tones to our textiles.

Dyeing the fabric: Fabrics are immersed in the dye bath, allowing them to absorb the natural colours fully. This meticulous process ensures each piece attains a distinct hue, reflecting the beauty of nature.

Drying and finishing: After dyeing, fabrics are dried and gently washed to remove any residual plant matter, resulting in a soft, naturally coloured textile ready for crafting into garments.

Benefits of botanical dyes

Healthier for the skin: Free from synthetic chemicals, botanical dyes reduce the risk of skin irritations and allergies, making them suitable for sensitive skin.

Eco-friendly: Utilising renewable natural resources and botanical dyes minimises environmental impact and promotes biodiversity.

Unique aesthetics: The natural variations in plant dyes produce one-of-a-kind colours, giving each garment a unique character.

Challenges in botanical dyeing: While the advantages are significant, adopting botanical dyes presents certain challenges:

Labour-intensive process: The meticulous nature of botanical dyeing requires skilled artisans and time, impacting production scalability.

Colour consistency: Achieving uniform colours can be challenging due to natural variations in plant materials, requiring careful quality control.

Limited colour range: The spectrum of colours available from natural sources is narrower compared to synthetic dyes, influencing design possibilities.

Our ongoing commitment

Despite these challenges, we remain steadfast in our commitment to using botanical dyes and continually seek ways to overcome obstacles. Prioritising health and environmental integrity over convenience leads to a more meaningful and responsible fashion.