Natural Dye Colours from Shetland

By Bunchy Theresa Casey

Being outside with nature is something that gives me a sense of belonging to the world. Everywhere I look I can see plants and trees that will produce colour on wool. I thank each one as I take leaves, flowers, seeds and bring this harvest inside. I always feel excited at the prospect of seeing the miracle of colour developing in the dye pot and then on the wool!

This book is about my colour-filled journey with natural dye plants. I share pages from my notebooks and dye journals. Also, photos taken on my phone to record the plants, dye processes and the shades of nature’s colour palette on wool.

 I hope others may enjoy natural dyeing as much as I do and learn from my experiences and mistakes!

Examples given use plants grown in Shetland. Many of these plants grow elsewhere. The recipes and dye processes are for use with most plants. Experiment and see what beautiful colours come from plants growing wherever you live.'

Photos courtesy of @spindrift_crafts