Pomegranate
Punica granatum
Pomegranate - An extract or a powder from the rinds of pomegranates Punica granatum, this dyestuff is high in tannin and improves the light and washfastness of any dye with which it is mixed. In India and south east Asia it is used as both a dye and in the mordant process. Pomegranate yields soft yellows to green-yellows when used as a dye.
See the MAIWA GUIDE TO NATURAL DYES
Mordanting: Use alum mordant at 15% WOF for protein fibres. For cellulose, first mordant with tannin at 8% WOF, then either 1) use alum at 15% with soda ash at 2% or 2) use aluminum acetate at 8%.
For cellulose fibres either 1) Just use pomegranate alone at 15-20% or 2) for a deeper colour, use a clear tannin (like oak gall) and then alum at 15% and soda ash at 2% and then a separate pomegranate dyebath (see below for WOF)
Dyeing with the extract: Use at 5-8% WOF.
Dyeing with the powdered rinds: Use at 15-20% WOF. Add to hot water, ensure it is thoroughly mixed and then add the fibre. Simmer for about 1 hour. If a darker colour is required leave in the dyebath overnight.
Options: When combined with iron, pomegranate yields yummy warm cement greys and deep moss greens. It is often mixed with the more fugitive turmeric dye to brighten the yellow and make it lightfast.
Ground Pomegranate 10% WOF
Ground Pomegranate 20% WOF Iron 2% WOF
Ground Pomegranate 20% WOF and 1 Indigo Dip
