natural dying: the process
The process of natural dying is a slow one. Each of our items is unique in its own right, harboring it's own unique features. Whilst we strive to provide unblemished items, we believe that what makes each of our items unique, are the features which they bare. From marbling to pigmentation, each item has a story to tell all of its own. We don't strive for perfection, because we know that it simply doesn't exist. We see past the imperfections, harnessing the beauty that nature has produced.
"ADOPT THE PACE OF NATURE. HER SECRET IS PATIENCE."
- RALPH WALDO EMERSON
01.
preparation
The amount of dye material used depends on the weight of the fabric. We will weigh it out and do a careful calculation using a trusted formula to ensure the right quantities. The amount of time we dye the fabric for will depend on the colour we are looking achieve but due to the unpredictable nature of natural dyes, much of our collection are the result of beautiful mistakes!
NEXT
02.
extraction + dying
After having cleaned the fabric, depending on whether it is of a protein or cellulose base, we will use a 'fixing agent' to ensure the natural dye materials bind. This prevents the colour running or fading - albeit it's impossible to prevent this entirely when working with natural dyes. It's for this reason that we refer to our collection as being made with 'living colour'.
NEXT
PREVIOUS
05.
PACKAGING + POSTING
We lovingly package each order using 100% recyclable packaging. We send our ribbons via The Royal Mail using 2nd class delivery, however express delivery options are also available at checkout.
PREVIOUS
PREPARATION OF FABRIC
The Silk Studio only works with natural fabrics. This is to ensure a successful result when dying with natural dye materials. We ethically source the highest quality materials from trusted suppliers from around the world.
Within our collection, along side habotai and chiffon silk, you will also find a vegan range of silk products which are made from Bamboo Silk and Peace Silk.
After having cleaned the fabric, depending on whether it is of a protein or cellulose base, we will use a 'fixing agent' to ensure the natural dye materials bind. This prevents the colour running or fading - albeit it's impossible to prevent this entirely when working with natural dyes. It's for this reason that we refer to our collection as being made with 'living colour'.
01.
SELECTION OF DYE MATERIALS
We use a variety of natural dye materials, from beans, to teas, flowers, foliage, fruits and vegetables. Our seasonal collection is often dictated by what is in season, the dye materials having been hand foraged wherever possible. Occasionally, we will use extracts which are derived from natural sources.
The amount of dye material used depends on the weight of the fabric. We will weigh it out and do a careful calculation using a trusted formula to ensure the right quantities. The amount of time we dye the fabric for will depend on the colour we are looking to achieve but due to the unpredictable nature of natural dyes, much of our collection are the result of beautiful mistakes!
02.
hand rolling and folding
All our ribbons are hand rolled onto their own wooden dowel to reduce creasing and maintain a smooth texture. Some of our items are too big for dowels, in which case they are hand folded and bound securely with our packaging.
04.
PACKAGING AND POSTING
We lovingly package each order and send our ribbons via The Royal Mail using 2nd class delivery, however express delivery options are also available at checkout.
SHOP THE COLLECTION
05.