Pomegranate - An extract or a powder from the rinds of pomegranates Punica granatum, this dyestuff is high in tannin and improves the light and washfastness of any dye with which it is mixed. In India and south east Asia it is used as both a dye and a mordant. Pomegranate yields soft yellows to green-yellows when used at 5-8%  WOF for the extract (15 - 20% WOF for the powder) for a medium depth of shade. When combined with iron, pomegranate yields yummy warm cement greys and deep moss greens. It is often mixed with the more fugitive turmeric dye to brighten the yellow and make it lightfast.

Mordanting: use alum mordant at 15% WOF for protein fibres and cellulose fibres (there is enough tannin in the pomegranate so mordanting with tannin is not required).

Dyeing: for either the powder or the extract, add to hot water, ensure it is thoroughly mixed and then add the fibre. Simmer for about 1 hour. If a darker colour is required leave in dyebath overnight.

For in-depth information on natural dyes see our Guide to Natural Dyes available on naturaldyes.ca. Also available as a Printable PDF