The Process

We begin our process by immersing protein fiber or cellulose cloth/fiber in a bath of different Mordants. This crucial first step prepares the cloth, allowing it to fully absorb the vibrant colors released from the botanicals and dye blankets.

Once the cloth is ready, we meticulously lay out leaves and other plant materials in the desired pattern. This careful arrangement is essential for achieving the intricate designs that characterize our prints.

Next, we place a dye blanket—crafted from natural dyes—over the leaves. This layer acts as a reservoir, ensuring that the colors are evenly transferred onto the silk.

A barrier cloth is then laid on top of the dye blanket. This protective layer prevents excess dye from seeping through and ensures a clean, crisp print.

The cloth, leaves, dye blanket, and barrier cloth are now rolled together around a dowel. We secure the bundle tightly with twine, making sure that all layers are in close contact.

The rolled bundle is then steamed for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours. The steam activates the naturally peasant pigments and tannins, our natural dye blanket then facilitates the transfer of the botanical patterns onto the fiber. The Dirty Pot uses rusty items within an aluminum pot. That pot has extra foliage dye material. Like eucalyptus foliage and branches. Along with onion skins and vinegar. This adds a natural tie dyed effect .

After steaming, we carefully unwrap the bundle to reveal the transformed pattern. The once plain fabric is now adorned with beautiful, natural foliage patterns—each piece a unique work of art.

The printed fiber is gently washed to remove any residual plant matter and excess dye. This step also helps to set the print, ensuring its longevity.

Finally, the fiber is air-dried and ironed. This not only smooths out any wrinkles but also further sets the print into the fabric.

At Elegant Camouflage, we pride ourselves on creating eco-friendly, botanical contact prints that are as sustainable as they are beautiful. Each piece of fiber tells a story—a narrative woven from the colors and shapes of our wild natural world.