Anybody out there ever used dyer's chamomile for dyeing? Do I need a mordant? Which mordant? Vinegar? I've used some other natural dyes but never this. I planted it this year, had a great crop, now what? I am supposed to use the blossoms, right?

-- Rosalie (deatline@globalsite.net), October 23, 2001

Answers

From "A Dyer's Garden" by Rita Buchanan

Dyeing with dyer's chamomile, golden marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria) Gather leaves anytime during the growing season for fresh use. Pick flower heads individually as they fade, or wait until peak bloom is passed and cut entire flower stalks down to the ground.You may dry the material for later use. Cover the plant parts with water, boil 30 to 60 mins, and strain off the dyebath. To dye, add mordantedyarn and simmer 30 to60 mins. The flower heads give typical yellows with alum on wool or silk and darker golds and oranges with tin or chrome. The leaves are more interesting because theygive unusual shades of green.

-- Bren (wayoutfarm@skybest.com), October 25, 2001.

Just a cautionary note for those doing natural dyeing; chrome is one of the mordants that can be used, but it is highly toxic so always use with care and keep away from where kids could reach. The chrome I have used for mordants is a bright golden granulated substance, which might be attractive to little ones. Have fun with the chamomile. You can also try overdyeing your chamomile-dyed yarn with red onion skins for a lovely rich russet color. With plant dyes there are lots of wonderful surprises :)

-- Taylor (bptaylor@ccrtc.com), October 26, 2001.