Safely Using Eco Dyes - Natural Dyes

Safely Using and Storing Eco Dyes - Natural Dyes

Naturally occurring eco dyes contain chemicals as do modern synthetic dyes. Indeed, all insects, minerals and plants that are part of eco dyes are made up of some chemicals or another. Therefore it is sensible and indeed  important to take some basic safety precautions. Every eco dyeing course we offer contains a health and safety element advising how to use and store eco dyes.

CRAFT COURSES
See all Craft Courses

Safety Advice

A good proportion of what follows is good old fashioned Common Sense but we think it is worth saying, once again...

Keep Dyes Separate

1. Treat all chemicals with proper care and attention just in case some are poisonous or may cause irritations to the skin.
2. Ideally, work and store the dyes in a work room or area separate from the rest of your property. If this is not possible, work in a well ventilated area, away from food preparation areas, children and pets.
3. Store all chemicals and dyes safely in clearly labelled containers and out of reach of children and pets.
4. Any pots used for natural dyeing should not be used for cooking or food preparation.

Personal Safety

5. Protect yourself properly by using eye safety glasses, aprons and gloves, and a mask if using natural extracts that are like dust. Avoid skin contact and accidental ingestion or inhalation.

6. Avoid eating, drinking or smoking when handling dyes.

Heavy Items

7. Large pots of water are heavy (1 litre of water is 1kilogram in weight or 10 litres is 10 kilograms (1 and a half Stones in old money) and when boiling are very hot. Be sure that you can lift them and if not ask someone who can.

Medical Advice

8. If any dyes or other chemicals are in contact with our eyes or you swallow and chemicals, seek medical advice!

Lots of this is just common sense.  Follow this basic advice and your natural dyeing journey will not only be safe, it will be  great source of enjoyment. 

About FelinFach

Our company, FelinFach Natural Textiles is located in the heart of the Preseli area of Pembrokeshire near to Boncath. We design Welsh blankets and the iconic Welsh Tapestry blankets which are traditionally woven at Welsh mills. We also design and make natural hand dyed yarn, cotton, silk and wool scarves and other handmade products, all available in our yarn store and shop. We also offer Welsh tartans, Sheepskin Rugs, Gift Cards and tools and books for crafters and knitters - Cocoknits, Laine, Amirisu and Making to name a few! Lastly, eco dyeing craft workshops on hand dyeing with 100% natural dyes. We are a proud supporter of the Campaign for Wool, All Things Wales and Global Welsh.

Other Related Blogs

   Hand Dyed Yarn Craft Courses - Hand Dyeing with Natural Dyes

Last updates 5th March 2022