Privet Berry Experiments (Continued)

From the first experiments in the previous blog post , we have four samples to work with. Each was a result of modifying the pH to see how it would affect the color achieved from the berries on 100% Linen (prepared with a tannin and mordant).

Original Samples

Each sample was then divided into 3 sections.

One of each was set aside to keep as is, along with the cotton thread.

One of each linen piece was wetted out, then dipped into an Indigo Vat.

The 3rd of each was wetted out and added to an Iron Bath.

Both of these afterbaths can be varied in several ways, but, for the sake of this experiment, 1 short dip into a strong Indigo Vat and 2 minutes in a 4% Iron Bath were used.

In total, there are 12 samples.

Pale Blue/Green Shades were from the original dye baths/modifiers.

Dark Blue Shades were from the Indigo overdye.

Brown Shades were from the Iron shift.

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All the variations provide a fun color pallet to work with. While this is not a dye that would be ideal for any item that will be washed frequently, it is a great opportunity to create art from wildcrafted color! The Indigo and Iron afterbaths should improve wash fastness. All pieces were gently hand washed in a pH neutral soap, which yielded only a little color change. Since all the fabric was properly prepared before dyeing, the color will stick much better.

Stay tuned to see what I chose to create.....