Plant ID
Sumac berries - these are used as a pink dye in the late summer and autumn.
Staghorn sumac illustration by Jenna Kessler
Sumac leaves - these are used to mordant cellulose fibres due to their high tannin content.
Dye Process
Harvested in September - 500g fresh berries (~300% WOF)
Glorious shades when wet
So much variety on different fiber types
Dye Results - 2021
Sumac on cotton, linen, ramie/silk, wool, and silk fibers.
Cellulose Fibers:
Bright pinks - grey undertones on some cottons
Protein Fibers:
Dark raspberry pink on silk, light orange-brown on wool
Dye Results - 2020
Sumac on cotton, linen, ramie/silk, wool, and silk fibers.