We can think of many good reasons to choose natural dyed linen; less toxins, more sustainability and less waste. We are becoming more conscious as consumers about what we put near our skins, on our bodies and in our homes. And we are becoming more aware as consumers of the damage our decisions make on the environment.
Why choose natural dyed linen
We can make choices that align with our values. One option is to only buy products that are made with natural materials.
The advantage to natural dyes is that there are no toxic chemicals to harm us and our families. Traditional dyes may be toxic and cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They are harmful to the environment when disposed of and can pollute wastewater that is let out into our waterways.
“It’s not so much that the use of the plant dyes is more sustainable than other types of dyes but plant grown colours are not derived from oil based chemicals and are grown in an environmentally conscious farming method. My process involves everything being done in house and made to order, this is why Madder Cutch & Co is a sustainable business.”
Nicola Cliffe, owner at Madder Cutch & Co
True linen fabric is a natural textile made from the fibres of the flax plant. Flax is sustainable and is often referred to as the most sustainable textile, provided it is processed and made into fabric or fashion in an eco-friendly way (CFDA). It is made from the stem of the plant and flax is a fast growing and renewable crop that requires little water and pesticides to grow.
Note that not all linen is made from flax. Other fibres can be labelled as linen when they have a similar look or feel. 100% organic flax linen is actually rare, less than 1% of textiles produced globally.
The third consideration when choosing natural dyed linen is whether it is a necessary purchase. As consumers we are being encouraged to buy less, use more and waste less. Spending a little more on a well made, natural dyed linen textile or product may actually save money in the longer term as it will be cherished and will last.
As an artisan maker of hand screen printed linen that is dyed with natural dyes, Nicola Cliffe is an expert in the processes involved in making linen textiles for the home. Nicola was a science teacher and she has used her knowledge of chemistry to develop a range of natural dyes that are plant based. They use plants like madder, cutch, woald and weld – hence the name Madder Cutch & Co. She uses these for her own screen prints and she sells the dyes to other makers.
Nicola has also authored a book on printing with natural dyes and teaches at regular workshops. Workshops include an introduction to screen printing, making natural dyes and how to make a lampshade.
Nicola uses natural linen for her textiles and products. She designs her own patterns that are inspired by her natural surroundings. For example, the achillea that grows in her own garden. These designs are then hand printed onto fabric rolls in her workshop. Nicola makes cushions, notebook covers, aprons, storage baskets, memo boards, lavender bags and pencil cases from the fabric.
Natural dyed linen for the home
Choose natural dyes for your home and enjoy all the advantages. They are less toxic, less harmful to the environment and buying consciously is less wasteful. Madder Cutch & Co’s organic linen fabric and products are available on her website.
Our sustainable business directory is full of eco-friendly and non-toxic products for your home. Find the perfect product for you.
