FUSTIC HARDWOOD DYE, Dyer's Mulberry ~ Dye Colour yellow and green
Fustic was introduced into Europe in the 16th century. It is a viable source of yellow, creating clear bright yellows to greens when overdyed with indigo. Made from the hardwood of Chlorophora or Morus tinctoria, this tree is part of the Mulberry family.
Fustic is extremely strong and only 25% of dye (W.D.F) is needed. Once dyed, the wood chips can be dried and re used again another time.
25% Fustic cut
Mordant yarn by dissolving Alum in hot water, add yarn and leave overnight.
Pour hot water over the woodchips and leave steeping overnight.
The next day:
Rinse mordanted yarn.
Strain dye and dry for another day.
Add yarn to dye bath, heat to 85C for 1hour.
Rinse and dry yarn.
*When using the dye again, boil it for 45min, the yellow will be darker.
**You can change the colour to olive green by adding 3% Iron.
*** Creates lovely clear greens when overdyed with Indigo