This dye kit contains turmeric powder and cotton scarves. It can be used for coloring fabric a beautiful golden yellow, brewing tea and cooking in cuisine. Compared to many plant-based dyes, turmeric doesn’t need a mordant because it stains the fiber directly. Keep in mind that it has low lightfastness and can fade when exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time. 

Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa and many other names, is a flowering perennial plant in the ginger family native to tropical Africa, Southeast Asia and Hawaii. It has been traditionally consumed for its flavorful health benefits and incorporated into natural remedies in West African, Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. 

MATERIALS: Turmeric Powder and Cotton Scarves 

DIRECTIONS: 

FOR TEA: Add 1 tbsp of turmeric powder to a pot of water. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes and pour into a cup. Enjoy!

FOR DYE: Set water to boil in a pot on the stove. Add 2-3 tbsp of turmeric powder and stir cotton fabric into the pot. Simmer on low heat. Let this solution soak overnight. Rinse fabric in cold water and dry.