Versatile Dyes Suitable for Multi Media Projects
Vegetable Dye an Affordable No Mess Alternative for Primary Art
May 8, 2009
Vegetable dyes are natural, non toxic mediums that are bright and easy to use. They are made from natural vegetable colourings that have been crushed from plant materials. The concentrated colourants are dried to make a conveniently storable powder, which will not take much space in art room cupboards. The powder can be reconstituted in containers, such as milk bottles, before class. Excess dye can be stored in air tight containers for lengthy periods.
Suitability for Primary School
Vegetable dyes are a favourite with primary arts teachers because they are a no mess, easy clean up material that washes easily from children’s hands and clothes. Because there is no risk of stains, and because it is non-toxic, the medium can be used in the classroom. It is entirely safe for young children because it has been formulated entirely from approved food stuff dyes. The versatile dye can be prepared quickly and is therefore suitable for temporary classrooms or when on school camps. It is a cold water dye and therefore ideal for situations where there is no access to hot water or where hot water may not be recommended for the age group in the class.
Vegetable Dyes are All about Colour
The translucent wash effects created with the medium can be enhanced or reduced in relation to the concentration of the mixture. Colours will be brighter and darker when less water is added. After mixing, the dyes can be combined to create new ranges of colours. It is suggested that teachers purchase the range of primary colours, plus purple. Colours such as green, aqua and orange can be mixed from this primary base range. It is easier for teachers to buy purple rather than try to mix a bright clear purple from the type of blue and red that is available in pure powdered form.
Art Material Good to Have on Hand
Teachers would choose to use this medium with their classes when
- they want a task that is quick and easy (often in the brain storming ideas stage of a unit)
- want to stimulate creative thinking and to give students lots of opportunities to explore many ways to push the possibilities of a medium (e.g. sprinkling dry powder across wet paper)
- when they wish to strategise success practices for students (it is hard not to make a beautiful picture with this medium)
- students need to be left to work without close supervision
Versatile Dye Suitable for Multi Media Projects
Vegetable dyes are a good first introduction to multi media for young artists. These dyes can be used as background for other drawing implements such as indelible black markers, pen and ink, gouache and oil pastels.
Beautiful designs can be created by drawing first with wax crayons or oil pastels and then applying a soft wash of dye across the top of the drawing. The crayon or pastel will resist the wash, which will settle softly behind the line or pattern work.
Craft Projects Enhanced by Vegetable Dye
Many manufacturers of vegetable dyes recommend them as a colouring for finger paints, brush paints, staining of wooden puzzles, models and blocks. Always read the instructions carefully and be sure to use a sealant after the project is finished if it is stated that this is required.
Vegetable dyes can be used in many craft applications such as creation of bath salts, candles, and the colouring of flowers, especially where a non-toxic water soluble colouring is needed. As well as carefully reading the instructions on containers, a process of trial and error will dictate whether the dye being used is appropriate for individual craft projects.
Resources:
Fine Art Supplies How to use your FAS Water-Soluble Dyes effectively.
Tintex Craft Colour Product Sheets and Instructions.
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