Cochineal is one of the world’s most iconic red dyes, obtained from the dried female insects of Dactylopius coccus Costa, cultivated on nopal (prickly pear) cactus. Our cochineal comes from a small, sustainable farm in Peru, produced under organic and fair-trade standards. With a high carminic acid content (19–22%), these insects yield brilliant reds, pinks, and purples that are prized by natural dyers worldwide.

Historically, cochineal was a highly valuable export from the Americas to Europe from the 16th century onward, shaping global textile trade. Today, it remains the only natural red colorant still widely approved for use in textiles, food, and cosmetics.

Active dye components: carminic acid (carmine, E120)
CI Natural Red 4 

How to Dye with Cochineal Powder

Cochineal powder is one of the most concentrated natural red dyes, producing vibrant pinks, crimsons, reds, and purples depending on fiber, mordant, and pH.

Use 6–10% WOF for most dye projects. Heat the cochineal in clean water for 30 minutes, add the pre-mordanted fibers and heat for one hour until fully saturated. Rinse well and dry in the shade. 

Cochineal responds beautifully to acidity. Adding cream of tartar to the dye bath can shift the color toward clearer, redder shades. The cochineal insects are already pre-ground for convenience.

Suggested usage

WOF: 6–10%
Best method: Hot dyeing
Mordant: Recommended, especially for silk and plant fibers
pH shift: Add cream of tartar for redder tones
Low-impact method: Suitable
Preparation: Grind finely before use for best results

Shading Tips

• No mordant needed on wool: bright, stable reds with cream of tartar
• Alum: clean pinks, reds, and magentas
• Alum + cream of tartar: pushes shades warmer, toward crimson
• Tannin + alum: richer, deeper hues on cellulose
• Iron: muted purples, violets, and greys
• pH sensitive: acidic baths intensify reds; alkaline baths shift to purples
• Overdye with indigo: plums, burgundy, and nearly black shades