Lichen Dyes: The New Source Book

Front Cover
Courier Corporation, Jan 1, 2001 - Crafts & Hobbies - 82 pages

Lichens are curious plants, composed of fungi and algae that often resemble splotches of paint peeling from rocks or wood. They have been used to create brilliant, versatile dyes for over 4,000 years. In this comprehensive guide based on 25 years of meticulous research, noted textile designer and lichen expert Karen Casselman explains how to create and use dyes derived from these unusual plants.
The text begins with a fascinating history of such Asian and European lichen pigments as Phoenician purple, Roman murex, Florentine orchil, and Norwegian korkje. Consideration of Scottish, Irish, and Scandinavian domestic lichen dyes follows, as well as those used in colonial America. Also discussed at length are safe dyeing methods, with special attention to equipment and preparation of the fiber; ecologically sound dyeing techniques and the use of mordants (substances used to fix dyes); lichen identification; and more. A final section includes charts of lichen dye names and ingredients, additives and alternative mordants, international field guides, useful bibliographies, indices, and other information.
Well written, informative, and filled with expert advice, this excellent guide will be indispensable to novices and experienced dyers who wish to learn the age-old art and craft of dyeing with lichens.

From inside the book

Contents

An Ethical Approach
1
Bronze and Iron Age Lichen
7
Domestic Lichen Dyes
15
Safe Lichen Dye Methods
25
Eco Dyes and Alternative
37
Lichens as Mordants 40 How to Learn Lichen
42
How to Adjust AM Dye Bath
53
Code of Ethics 47 General Index
65
Lichens and Dye Pigments 48 Name Language and Place Index
81
Copyright

Common terms and phrases

Bibliographic information