Hello, we are Wonky Weaver, a company dedicated to the crafts of weaving, dyeing, and the general use of natural colours.
We are passionate about the use of natural colours derived from nature including botanical derived dyes, and also insect derived dyes from the cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) and LAC (Kerria lacca). There are many advantages of using natural dyes, primarily because they are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, non-synthetic, non-toxic, and most importantly deliver lovely natural palettes of colour.
Before the first creation of synthetic dyes 161 years ago by William Perkin in 1856, the only available dyes and pigments were those that were naturally derived. For instance, blankets, fabrics, and clothing were dyed with madder (Rubia tinctorum), also known as dyers madder, woad Isatis tinctoria (dyers woad), and any other leaves, foliage or flowers that could be gathered from woodlands, gardens or hedgerows.
Furthermore, as indigo was cultivated and imported from Asia, India and South America, this became a popular dye due to its richness of colour, and the fact it was easier to ferment and prepare than woad.
In addition to their colour, many natural dyes have additional benefits, for instance indigo, Himalayan rhubarb, and sappanwood confer anti-bacterial benefits, and marigold, sandalwood, madder and many others confer healing, conditioning and soothing properties.
As scientists ourselves with much past experience in working with cosmetics, product development, and regulatory affairs, we understand the needs and wishes of craft soap and toiletry makers, and the desire to utilise natural, safe and beneficial ingredients in such products. We always recommend some experimentation as natural dyes are not so consistent or standardised as synthetic pigments.
All of our dye products are of high quality, REACH compliant, and manufactured under the strictest of conditions. We are also able to supply Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Colour Index numbers, and summaries of safety and benefits where required. However, please note at present we are not able to undertake full Cosmetic Product Safety Reports (CPSR) according to EU Regulation No 1223/2009 at this present time – but watch this space as we are working on this right now!
We welcome your support and interest in our natural dye products, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
https://gcstm.co.uk/introducing-wonky-weaver-natural-dyes/
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