Onion Skins Dye
Ever wonder how to make onion skin dye? Look no further than this easy DIY tutorial for making natural dye from onion skins!
Yield: 1 project
Cost: $1
Equipment
- large non-reactive metal pots stainless steel pots work well
- tongs
Materials
- 1 piece natural fabric or yarn you would like dyed cotton, linen and wool work best
- at least 10 onion skins any type/color, use as many or as little as you would like
Instructions
- In a large pot, place the natural fabric or yarn you would like dyed. Cover with water and turn the heat to high. Once boiling, turn the heat down to a simmer and simmer the fabric/yarn for 20 minutes, then turn off the heat.
- Meanwhile, in another large pot, place the onion skins and enough water to cover them and allow them to float freely. Bring to a boil, cover, then reduce to a simmer. Simmer for one hour or until desired color strength is achieved.
- Strain the skins from the dye and return the dye to the pot (or strain into another pot). Bring the dye to a simmer and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the wet fabric or yarn to the simmering dye pot and simmer for 30 minutes longer. Turn off the heat, then carefully remove the fabric/yarn and place in an empty pot or container to cool down.
- Once the fabric/yarn is cool enough to handle, rinse it well under cool, running water. Gently wring out the fabric/yarn, then place on a clothesline or rack to air dry away from direct sunlight.
- See the full post above this recipe for more in-depth information on dyeing with onion skins. Enjoy!