For the best results,
use natural fibers like
cotton, linen, wool,
silk, and hemp. Motnyk
prewashes all textiles
to remove any residue
(she likes the concen-
trated detergent Syn-
thrapol), and treats
them with a mordant,
a solution of either vin-
egar or salt and water,
to help set the dye.
Then she follows her
recipes (opposite). Aim
for about a gallon of
dye per pound of dry
fabric, so the material
can swish around.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Large stainless steel
stockpot, strainer, mix-
ing spoon, tongs,
non-iodized salt, white
vinegar, and rubber
gloves (to protect hands
from staining).