Natural dyes don’t work alone, they need a little help to bond with the fabric and stay vibrant over time.

That’s where mordants and assists come in.

Mordants like alum or iron prepare the fiber to take on color, while assists (like chalk, tannins, or cream of tartar) help shift shades, adjust pH, or improve fastness.

This section includes the basics I use in my own practice, tried and tested, and as low-impact as possible.