Sumac Gallnut Extract
Source: Chinese Sumac Gallnut (Rhus semialata Murr.)

Sumac Gallnut Extract is a natural extract derived from the Chinese sumac gallnut, specifically developed for textile and natural dyeing applications. With a high tannic acid content and very low colour, this extract is ideal for pre-treating fibers and enhancing dye fixation.

Main Constituents:

• Hydrolysable Tannins (> 95%)
  
• Very low dust production during handling
• Highly soluble in both cold and hot water

Suggested Quantities (WOF - Weight of Fabric):

• Mordanting: Use 5–10% of fabric weight (WOF).
• For Darker Shades: Combine with iron sulphate (1–3% WOF) for deeper, darker tones.

Uses:

• Pre-treatment of Vegetable Fibres: This extract’s high tannic acid content is perfect for pre-treating cellulosic fibres to improve the fixation of mordants during the mordanting step.
• Natural Dyeing & Textile Printing: Any fibre can be dyed with Sumac Gallnut Extract. It enhances the lightfastness of resulting colours. When combined with iron sulphate, it forms dark, solid complexes that are perfect for shading darker shades (e.g. madder, indigo) on silk and wool, while reducing the risk of weakening fibres.
• Other Uses: Used in tannery processes and the manufacture of iron gall inks.

The Plant:
The Chinese sumac is a shrub ranging from 2 to 10m tall, native to northeastern India, China, Japan, Korea, and Indonesia. The galls are caused by the sting of an insect, usually a kind of wasp, on the leaves or bud. Sumac gallnuts are rich in hydrolysable tannins, particularly tannic acid.

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MYROBALAN EXTRACT ~ Tannin Mordant & Natural Dye

Myrobalan Extract, derived from the nuts of Terminalia chebula, is a rich source of natural tannins, including gallic and ellagic acid. Traditionally used in textile dyeing and printing, it enhances mordant fixation on cellulose fibers and produces shades ranging from light yellow to deep brown. Combined with iron, it is a key ingredient in creating grey and black tones.

Uses & Benefits:

• Mordanting: Prepares cellulose and protein fibres for improved dye absorption.

• Dyeing & Printing: Produces soft yellow to brown tones, deepening when used with alum or iron.

• Versatile Applications: Used in tannery, ink preparation, and silk processing.

About the Plant:

Chebulic Myrobalan grows across Asia and parts of Africa, prized for its tannin-rich fruits. It has been used for centuries in textile traditions, tannery, and even traditional medicine.

Recommended Usage for Dyeing:

• As a mordant for cellulose fibres: Use 10–20% of the weight of the fabric (WOF).

• For light yellow tones: Use 5–10% WOF.

• For deeper brown shades: Use 20–30% WOF.

• When used with iron for greys and blacks: Start with 10–15% WOF of Myrobalan, then follow with an iron afterbath (1–3% WOF).

Dissolve the extract in hot water before adding it to the dye bath for best results.

For optimal results, use as a pre-mordant or in combination with iron for darker tones.

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