Mordants
2 articles
Artisans & Craft
Choosing Among Alum, Iron, Copper and Tannin: A Practical Guide to Traditional Mordants
This guide compares four traditional mordants—alum, iron, copper, and tannin—explaining their unique effects on protein and cellulose fibers to help natural dyers achieve predictable colors. It highlights the crucial role of tannin as a pre-treatment for cellulose fibers to ensure lasting dye adhesion.
Aisha Bakri·October 31, 2026
Artisans & Craft
Natural Dyes Explained: Three Stages from Plant to Fiber, and Why the Craft Is Returning
Natural dyeing involves a three-stage process: preparing fibers with mordants, extracting color from plants, and then dyeing the fiber. This ancient craft is experiencing a revival driven by sustainability concerns and modern innovations.
Aisha Bakri·October 29, 2026