People have used organic dyes and pigments for as long as humans have existed. Over the years their purposes have ranged from bright ceremonial garb to hunting camouflage. Now, organic dyes are prized for their smooth color and renewable origins.
There are many varieties of dye on the market. General purpose liquid or powder dyes are the most common and are used for many industrial applications. Specialty dyes include organic hair dye or organic fabric dye. In any case, knowing how to properly use the dyes you wish to purchase is a good first step towards making your purchase. Consider the following when using organic dyes and pigments:
1. It may be easier and cheaper to make your own dyes from locally available resources depending on your business model.
2. Commercial organic dyes come in both powder and liquid form. These general purpose dyes have many uses all across industry.
3. Specialty dyes are available from smaller companies. The most common uses for specialty dye are on hair and fabric.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Utilize natural organic pigments from plants found all over the U.S.
Creating your own dyes and pigments can greatly increase the uniqueness and value of your product. While this isn't a viable route for large organizations, smaller companies can use local plants to make their products more distinctive.
I recommend: Essortment has information on making basic dyes from plants that are available year-round throughout the county.
Pioneer Thinking has a much wider variety of recipes and processes, but some of their materials are more difficult to find.
Use general purpose organic dyes and pigments for many industrial and commercial purposes
Commercial organic dyes are typically made from plants and insects. These dyes have a wide variety of tones and colors but often share a subtle undertone that denotes it as an organic pigment. They are typically packaged as powder or in a liquid suspension. In either case, the dyes are heavily concentrated and need to be diluted before use.
I recommend: ORCO offers an online Lab Request Form that will put them right to work for you. Buy organic dye or instruct them in your unique color creation.
Dharma Trading will show you the range of color available from dyes derived from plants and insects.
Find specialty hair and organic fabric dyes
The two most common types of specialty dyes are hair dye and fabric dye. These specialty dyes typically come in much smaller quantities than their commercial brethren but are equally as concentrated.
I recommend: Herbarium International sells a wide range of organic dyes all around the world.
Aurora Silk is a one stop spot for organic dyes, including a wide range of fabric dyes. They also ship silk works and supplies all over the United States.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- A common mistake is to assume that anything made completely out of organic and natural material is safe; this is not the case. Many organic dyes require heavy metal compounds (called mordants) to properly set into an item. These metals are toxic when absorbed through the skin or inhaled. In addition, many dyes contain heavy salts that are easily absorbed through the skin.
The official source of Organic Dyes and Pigments is
the Organic Dyes and Pigments page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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