Cochineal Dye

Description

Cochineal Dye is a powerful natural colorant made from the dried bodies of the cochineal insect (Dactylopius coccus), which feeds on prickly pear cactus in Mexico and South America. Revered for its intensity, cochineal yields a stunning range of colors, from crimsons and pinks to rich purples and scarlets, depending on mordant and pH. Its colorant, carminic acid, offers exceptional strength, brilliance, and lightfastness, particularly on protein fibers like silk and wool. This dye is prized by artists, textile conservators, and natural dyers for its beauty, versatility, and vibrancy.

Recommended Use

Use at 5 to 8% WOF for medium saturation; increase for deeper shades. Dissolve in hot water before adding to the dye bath. Shifting the pH or adding specific mordants allows for wide variation in tone. Ideal for wool and silk, also works on cotton with proper mordanting, and is perfect for overdyeing or layering with other natural dyes.

Historical Significance

Cochineal was one of the most precious dyes in the world. After the Spanish conquest it became New Spain's most valuable export after silver, transforming European dyeing, painting, and manuscript illumination. Long before that, it was cultivated by the peoples of Mexico and Peru and paid as tribute to the Aztec rulers. In Europe it colored the robes of cardinals, royal garments, and the fine tapestries of Flanders and Italy, and its brilliance secured its place among the elite colorants of the pre industrial world.

Dye Details

Name: Carminic acid from Dactylopius coccus
Origin: Peru
Dye Type: Insect derived dye
Recommended Fibers: Silk, wool, cotton, linen, and blends
Lightfastness: Very good on protein fibers; good on cellulose with proper mordant
Mordants & Modifiers:
Alum: crimson and deep pinks
Tin: brilliant scarlet reds
Iron: burgundy, purple, and blackberry tones
Copper: muted red purples
Cream of Tartar: brightens and warms color
Citric or Tartaric Acid: shifts toward orange red and scarlet
Alkaline pH: deepens into magenta and purple

Packaging

Available in resealable, eco friendly kraft pouches. Instructions for modern and historical dye baths included.

Health and Safety

• For art use only. Not for cosmetic, food or children's use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not eat, drink or smoke while working.
• Avoid creating or breathing dust. Work in a ventilated area and wear a NIOSH approved dust respirator (N95 or better) when handling dry pigment.
• Wear gloves and eye protection. Wash hands and work surfaces after use, and never rinse pigment into drains.
• Do not spray apply, sand or burn.
• If swallowed or if you feel unwell, contact a poison control center (U.S. 1-800-222-1222) or a doctor.
• Safety Data Sheet available on request.