Many leaves have natural dyes, which when mature, can be extracted in this easy-to-do project.
This is more than a nature project.
It’s a glimpse into how people used these same plants to dye fabric for centuries before the convenience of mass production.
* NOTE: DO NOT use fabric softener if you wash or dry the T-shirt before you begin this project.
Materials:
Materials to set colors:
Procedure:
1. Lay several sheets of newspaper on the flat board.
2. If you have newsprint, lay it on top of newspaper.
3. Spread T-shirt, right side up, on top of this.
4. Place leaves on T-shirt in a pattern.
5. Place wax paper over leaves.
6. Tape edges to flat board.
7. Pound on leaves with rock or hammer.
8. Apply even pressure on the entire surface.
9. When you’re tired of pounding, remove T-shirt.
10. If you need more color:
a. Dip a fresh leaf of the same type in water;
b. Dab the moist leaf on the fabric to fill in color.
11. First rinse and set: follow directions above.
12. Final rinse in cold water.
13. Air dry out of direct sunlight.
You can also use this technique to decorate:
- A tablecloth and napkins
- Wall hangings
- Handkerchiefs
- Other garments - hat or vest
NOTE: I’m always looking for ways to improve projects and activities. Contact me with your results or if anything is unclear to you.