Lac Extract (Laccifer lacca)

Red powder in a wooden bowl on a white background

Lac Extract (Laccifer lacca)

$12.50

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Pickup available at eHouse Rishon

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Lac is one of the world’s oldest known dyes, with records dating back to around 250 AD. Derived from the resinous secretions of the lac insect (Kerria lacca), lac dye was historically prized across India and Southeast Asia for its brilliant reds and purples.

Did you know? Before cochineal arrived from the Americas, lac was one of the most important sources of red dye in Asia. Its softer, muted hues distinguished it from the brighter tones of kermes and cochineal, making it highly valued in traditional silk and wool dyeing.

Unlike raw lac powder, which requires tedious vinegar extraction, our refined lac extract is pre-processed for easy use, giving you stronger, more consistent color with less effort.

Main dye compound: Laccaic acid (Lac)
CI Natural Red 25
Origin: Sustainably harvested in India

Shading Tips

Alum (protein fibers) → crimson to rich burgundy
Aluminum acetate (cellulose) → soft reds and muted purples
Acidic bath (vinegar, cream of tartar) → enhances bright red tones
Neutral pH → deeper purples
Iron → plums, greys, and blackened reds
Overdye with indigo → violet to deep aubergine

WOF: 5–8% for medium shades

Preparation: Dissolve in a small amount of hot water to form a paste before adding to the dye bath

Mordanting:
– Substantive dye (can attach without mordant)
– Alum (15% WOF) recommended for protein fibers
– Aluminum acetate (10% WOF) recommended for cellulose fibers

pH sensitivity: Acidic assists bring out brighter reds; neutral baths yield deeper purples

Fiber types: Especially effective on silk and wool; works on cellulose with mordanting