Woad Dye

Description

Woad Dye is a historic natural colorant extracted from the leaves of Isatis tinctoria, a flowering plant cultivated across Europe and Central Asia for over two millennia. Like indigo, woad contains the blue pigment indigotin, but in lower concentrations, producing ethereal shades of dusty blue, slate, and soft sky tones. Woad is especially valued for its subtle, beautiful character and cultural significance in early European textile traditions. The dye requires a reduction vat for application, bonding to fibers through oxidation. It is gentle on delicate fibers and often chosen for historical reenactments and heritage crafts.

Recommended Use

Use at 5–10% WOF for medium to strong shades. Requires reduction (typically with soda ash and thiourea dioxide or other natural reducers) and an alkaline environment. Works best with repeated dips to build color and improve fastness. Ideal for protein and cellulose fibers including wool, silk, linen, and cotton. Can be used alone or layered with indigo for complex blues.

Historical Significance

Woad was the primary blue dye used throughout Europe before the widespread introduction of tropical indigo. It clothed Celtic warriors, illuminated medieval manuscripts, and was central to textile production in regions like France, Germany, and Britain. In England, it became a symbol of identity and resistance. The ancient process of extracting and fermenting woad leaves, though time-consuming, represents one of the earliest and most storied dye traditions in Western history.

Dye Details

Name: Indigotin from Isatis tinctoria

Origin: Europe or Central Asia (varies by batch)

Dye Type: Fermented botanical extract

Recommended Fibers: Wool, silk, linen, cotton, and blends

Lightfastness: Excellent on protein fibers, good on cellulose

Vat Ingredients:

Reducing agent (Thiourea Dioxide or Fermented Urine for traditionalists)

Alkaline agent (Soda Ash or Lime)

Warm water (120–140°F) for activation

Optional: Natural fermentation additives like wheat bran or madder root for heritage vats

Packaging

Available in resealable, eco-friendly kraft pouches with historical and modern vat instructions included.