Botanical or plant-based dyeing is a method of creating colour and patterns on textiles using plant materials, including flowers, leaves, roots, barks, berries and resins. Much of this is homegrown by me in my seaside garden, or responsibly foraged from the local environment. Sometimes I use dried materials supplied from reputable sources.

Botanical dyeing is a slow process, involving a close relationship with the seasons and the ebb and flow of different plant materials. The rich natural colours are gradually extracted and imbued into the fabrics. Other techniques such as bundle dyeing are also used to create beautiful botanical imprints.

There is a magical unpredictability to botanical dyeing, so you can rest assured that your piece will be completely unique and unlike any other.

Wherever necessary, all the fabrics I use are pretreated with mordants to ensure long lasting colour and a good bond with the dyes. Dyes are also chosen for their reliability and light/wash fastness. Botanical dye however is sometimes known as ‘living colour’ meaning it can develop and change over time, like a good wine or that perfect pair shoes. For me, this is to be embraced as part of the joy of wearing a little piece of nature.

Yes you can, although I would always recommend washing as little as possible. Hand washing with an eco-washing product will give best results. This however isn’t always going to be realistic (especially with the kids clothes!) so the cottons, bamboo and linens can go in the washing machine on a cool 30 degree delicate setting. They can also be put in the dryer, again on cool. They can be ironed following recommended settings.

The silks should always be carefully hand washed with a gentle eco detergent. An eco fabric softener will restore the feel and, if possible, air dry out of direct sun. They can be ironed damp, again following recommended settings. So if your silk scarf arrives a little creased from being folded a quick spritz with water and a cool iron will restore its beauty.

When not in use store out of direct sun, although I am sure it will soon become your favourite item.

I will happily undertake commissions. Maybe you have a specific event, and you would love some botanically dyed ribbons, handkerchiefs or tableware? Or a favourite item of clothing you would like upcycled? As long as it is a natural fibre, I can do it. Or perhaps you would love to preserve a special flower or bouquet as a permanent memento onto a scarf or piece of fabric?

Please do message me with your ideas and I will endeavour to make them happen for you.

I love to share my knowledge and I regularly run workshops from my studio in the seaside town of Rye. Please do sign up to my newsletter and follow on social media for regular updates. If you would like a workshop run for you at an event or would like some 1:1 teaching please do message me to discuss.

Not only are they easy, they are a lot of fun! They contain everything you need to make your own botanically dyed silk or organic cotton scarf. The plant material has been carefully selected for safety and reliability and they make a lovely activity for all the family. All that is required is a vegetable steamer (or even a sieve over a pan works fine). You will be amazed at the results! They also come in a letterbox sized box and make a perfect gift.