BIRCH LEAVES DYE (Betula pendula)
Dye Colour: Yellow and Green (with Iron)
Country of Collection: Typically Europe
Birch (Betula pendula) is a deciduous hardwood tree native to Europe, widely valued in natural dyeing for its soft golden hues. The dried leaves yield a reliable yellow, which can shift to green with iron - making it a versatile natural dye for fibre artists.
Closely related to alders and hazels, birch is a classic in traditional botanical dye practices.
Colour Fastness: Good
Colour Outcomes by WOF Ratio:
- 100–200% WOF Birch Leaves – Produces soft to rich yellow tones
- Add 3% Iron – Shifts colour to natural olive green
Basic Recipe for Dyeing:
Ingredients:
- 100–200% Birch Leaves (by weight of fibre)
- 15% Alum (as mordant)
- Wool or other protein fibres
Instructions:
- Soak birch leaves in water for 24 hours
- Boil the soaked leaves for 1 hour
- Add pre-mordanted yarn in the dye bath for 30–60 minutes
- For colour variations, use iron as a pre or after mordant.
Use birch leaves to explore a range of nature-inspired shades. Whether you’re aiming for warm yellows or forest greens this traditional dye brings a timeless, organic beauty to your work.
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