How to Make Natural Dyes from Plants

Discover the science of color by creating your own vibrant fabric dyes using ingredients found in your kitchen and garden.

1. Prepare your dye bath. Place your chosen plant material into the pot and add two cups of water. Ask a grown-up to help you bring the water to a gentle boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the water is deeply colored.
2. Strain the liquid. Once the water is dark, ask a grown-up to help you strain the plant bits out of the pot, leaving only the colored liquid in a bowl. Add your salt or vinegar to the liquid; this acts as a 'mordant' to help the color stick to the fabric.
3. Dye your fabric. Place your white fabric into the bowl of dye. Use tongs to make sure it is fully submerged. Let it soak for at least an hour, or leave it overnight for a deeper, darker color.
4. Rinse and dry. Use your tongs to remove the fabric from the bowl. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear, then hang it up to dry to see your final color.