Dyeing is a process which gives new life to a fabric. Dyeing has the power to turn a plain fabric into a magical creation. How many types of dyes are used to colour the fabric? Two different groups of dyes exist for fabric colouration which consist of natural dyes and synthetic dyes. Each type of dye has its process and methods that work differently. They have their own pros and cons. So, let's dive deeper into the science behind the dyeing of a fabric. You will be amazed to read some interesting facts about dyeing.
Natural Dyeing: Colours from Nature
The natural dye comes from plants, insects, fruits, flowers and minerals. Dyeing a fabric naturally is a very satisfying process. For example, cochineal Bugs create red dye, and its name is carmine, which gives a very bright red colour. Indigo comes from a plant named Dyerswoad; it can dye all the natural fibres. Indigo dyeing gives a beautiful blue shade colour. If you want to know more about indigo dyeing, you can check our Indigo Dyeing Fabric Formation and Challenge write-up. When dyeing naturally mordants are used which are special chemicals that helps to make the colour stick to the fabric.
The most beautiful fact about natural dyed fabrics is that each batch is unique. It gives a nice pastel colour to the fabric. The colour can vary slightly depending on factors like when the plant was harvested and the weather. There are some cons of natural dyeing that it can fade easily and it is expensive as well. The process is time taking as well.
Synthetic dyeing: Lab made colours
Synthetic dyes are introduced to make the process of dyeing easier and cheap. It is man made in the laboratories. They are made with certain chemicals like copper, mercury, lead, sodium chloride that make the process of dyeing easier. It created strong and bright colours that stay longer. They merge with fabric in a very controlled way that makes them durable and consistent.
Synthetic dyes are very quicker and cheaper in cost to produce, that makes it perfect for large factories that engages in mass production. These dyes are also harmful for environment and skin as it is made of chemicals that can cause irritation to the skin.
Natural vs Synthetic dye? Which is better for the Planet
Synthetic dyes differ from natural dyes because of their dissimilar effect on the environment. Synthetic dyes dissolve chemicals into water bodies that turn out to be dangerous for rivers and oceans. Synthetic dyes contain toxic chemicals that are not good for the planet as well as the skin.
Natural dyes, on the other hand, come from renewable sources like plants, flowers and other things that are better for the environment. They are also biodegradable. However, it needs a lot of water and land to grow these, and it can be a challenge sometimes.
Which one to choose?
Deciding on choosing from natural and synthetic dyes depends on what you are looking for in a garment. If you are a nature lover and love to wear something that is connected to nature, then naturally dyed clothes are the best choice for you. Because it has a deep connection with nature. Handmade natural dyes are a form of absolute beauty. The process and the colour are all-natural and beautiful. At the same time, synthetic dyes are good for mass production. If you want a quicker and cheaper process of dyeing, then synthetic dyes are for you.
Sum up!
I personally love naturally dyed clothes, and also I have no hate for synthetic dyes. Wearing naturally dyed garments connects us to the environment. So inspired by the beauty of natural dyes, we have created a collection named Shudhya 2.0 that has all naturally dyed clothes. Flowers like roses, marigolds and hibiscus have been used to dye the fabrics. The garments will surely match your asthetics. All the handmade dresses from our collection are made with fine fabrics like cotton and mulmul which are gentle to skin. So why to wait add these beautiful pieces to your wardrobe and make it full of colours.
Finally, I want to state whether it is a natural or synthetic dye. Dyeing is an art that helps to bring beautiful colours to the fabric and the world. Check these dresses to get the perfect dress.
