Lac

Description
Lac Orange-Pink Dye is a natural colorant derived from the resinous secretions of the lac insect (Kerria lacca), which inhabits host trees in tropical regions of India and Southeast Asia. Celebrated for its warm, vibrant orange-pink hues, this dye offers excellent lightfastness on protein fibers like silk and wool. The production process involves collecting the resin, then extracting and refining it using water or alcohol to yield a pigment rich in laccaic acids. With the use of various mordants, artisans can tailor the dye to produce a range of shades—from luminous orange-pinks to deeper, more complex reddish tones.

History

Ancient and Medieval Eras (circa 1000 BCE – 16th Century CE):
Lac dye has long been an integral part of traditional Indian and Southeast Asian textile practices, prized for its rich, warm colors in fabrics, paintings, and decorative arts.
Colonial Period (16th–19th Century CE):
European traders introduced lac-dyed textiles to the Western market, where its unique, vivid tones captured the imagination of artists and fashion designers alike. In the textile pictured made by embroiderers of the Mochi community in Gujarat in western India, Lac dye is used for the deep purple-scarlet color throughout.
Modern Era (20th Century – Present):
Although synthetic dyes led to a reduction in its mass production, lac dye remains popular among artisans, luxury textile manufacturers, and eco-conscious producers who value its natural origins and enduring beauty.

Health and Safety

Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Avoid ingestion of the raw dye pigment.
Not intended for  cosmetic or food usage.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged skin exposure.
When handling the dry dye, use appropriate protective equipment (such as a NIOSH-certified respirator) to prevent inhalation of dust.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Dye Information

Dye Type: Natural extract from the lac insect (Kerria lacca)
Country of Origin: India
Suitable Mordants:
Alum (to achieve bright, vivid orange-pinks)
Cream of Tartar (for soft, delicate hues)
Tin (to enhance orange-red tones)
Iron (for deeper, more complex shades)
Copper (to adjust and intensify pink tones)
Lightfastness: Excellent on protein fibers, offering high durability on silk and wool, with Good performance on cellulose fibers.
Image: Embroiderery of the Mochi community in Gujarat in western India from the Victoria and Albert Museum