How to Make a Natural Dye Using Lichens

Lichens are an interesting source of natural dyes that have been used for color long before mushrooms. They are a combination of fungus and algae. I wanted to explore this branch of natural dyes with the help of my Mom, Dorothy Beebee, who began dyeing with lichens 50 years ago!
In this video we use Wolf lichen (Letharia vulpina) using a simple water boil dye process. Our sample is 100% wool, no mordant.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When you collect lichens - never collect from trees or rocks - only collect from what has fallen to the ground. Lichens are a living organism that can take years to grow - please be respectful of their important role in our ecosystem.
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[@sondragingery5949]

As soon as I saw that you had a new video I was saying Goodie, goodie! It is so wonderful that you are doing these with your mother, and recording her wealth of knowledge.

[@TarotLadyLissa]

I want to sit and have coffee with your mom and pick her brain! Shes lovely! Inside and out!

[@datinyone]

the pure joy on your mom's face during this entire video, was wonderful to see :)

[@MyraMadeColor]

You are so kind - thank you!

[@jygood3718]

Love the videos with your mum. So much information🤗

[@craftyazshabbyshacjude3297]

WOW just discovered your channel and what a gem of information you and your Mum especially have. Love this video on Lichens, and always wondered if they would produce a colour. Here In NZ we have 9 variety's i think it is and will defiantly try your method and note them down. Huge Hugs from down under xx

[@MyraMadeColor]

Thank you so much!

[@Whisperkissper]

what a lovely way of teaching you both have.

[@MyraMadeColor]

Glad you think so!

[@vanishrees8098]

Well, I'm currently dealing with my project work in Master's in botany,the topic goes with dye analysis, which am doing with plant sources such as flowers and fruits..today after watching this video I found it really interesting to dye with lichens! loved your way dying and happy to know some facts about lichens, I really expect a video on how to check colour fastness like washing and light fastness.

[@MyraMadeColor]

Thank you for sharing! If you're interested in a video focused on color fastness for natural dyes, here's a link. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f6uziquCfN1jg9U

[@elvirakammerscheid6340]

In Germany we call this lichen fox lichen because this poison kills foxes. But now I know more. Thank you very much!

[@theverbind]

This was so wholesome and educational!

[@maggiesmith3472]

So well explained. A dyer who understands the chemistry. A pleasure to learn from you.

[@naganandinimn4264]

very good, botanist

[@LastMinuteLaura]

I am so glad to have found your channel! I have not explored lichens yet, but I love natural dyeing with plants! Thanks for making this video * *subscribed* *

[@MyraMadeColor]

Glad to hear it! Thank you for watching!

[@MariellaOlden]

Aww this video is so fascinating! I am a freshman biology student and am currently studying lichens as part of our exam, and I am glad to have watched this video for new learning. I loved how your mom explained everything to you! Thanks for sharing this!

[@MyraMadeColor]

Thank you for sharing! 😊

[@WisehudGM]

With your mom the joy can't be explained you're awesome 💕💯🙏

[@MyraMadeColor]

Oh thank you! We truly do love spending time together, especially when it involves dyeing.

[@botanicaltreasures2408]

Really enjoyable tutorial. Here is South Carolina I gathered some beard lichen Usnea from fallen branches. I’m going to see if it makes a dye.

[@MyraMadeColor]

Good luck!

[@botanicaltreasures2408]

@@MyraMadeColor The shield lichen made a reddish color. My wool yarn ended up dusty rose in color.

[@corinnevanbalen1474]

Really love, love, love this video.... Love your mum!

[@BlossomBlendFibres]

Thank you so much for sharing your passion for natural colour. 💞

[@cumberlandquiltchic1]

“You don’t need a mordant “. … but, isn’t vinegar a mordant? I enjoy dying with lichen.

[@MyraMadeColor]

Vinegar is not a mordant. It shifts the pH balance of the dye towards acidic, which is important for some natural dyes. Mordants are metallic salts, such as alum or iron, that bond to the fiber to fix the dye to the fiber.

[@ezgidikdere5890]

Gooood!!! It was amazing to see you , together! Thank you, both

[@MyraMadeColor]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jessicabey275]

🥰

[@tays1263]

This lichen isn’t poisonous to touch correct?

[@MyraMadeColor]

Correct. This is safe to touch. Wearing gloves when doing natural dyes is a good idea if you’re ever unsure, or if you tend to have sensitive skin.