How to Make Dye from Strawberries?

To make dye from strawberries, you need a few simple materials and follow a straightforward process. Here’s a detailed guide:

Materials You'll Need:

Prepare the Strawberries: Mash the fresh strawberries thoroughly. This releases the natural juices and pigments that will act as the dye.
Strain the Mixture: Take your old nylon stocking and use it to strain the mashed strawberries. This will separate the liquid dye from the pulp. You should have a smooth, liquid strawberry puree.
Prepare the Dye Bath: Pour the strained strawberry puree into a pot. Add salt and vinegar. These act as mordants, helping the dye to adhere to the fabric. The reference doesn't give exact amounts, so start with a few tablespoons of each and adjust as needed.
Add the Fabric: Place the fabric you want to dye into the pot with the strawberry mixture.
Boil the Mixture: Heat the pot with the fabric, dye, salt, and vinegar. Boil the mixture for a period of time to allow the dye to bond with the fabric. The exact time needed can vary, depending on the intensity of the color desired.
Rinse and Dry: Remove the fabric from the pot and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess dye. Then, let the dyed fabric air dry.

Step	Description	Materials
1. Prepare	Mash the strawberries to release the juices.	Fresh strawberries
2. Strain	Separate the juice from pulp using nylon stocking.	Old nylon stockings
3. Dye Bath	Combine the juice with salt and vinegar.	Pot, salt, vinegar
4. Add Fabric	Place the fabric to be dyed into the dye bath.	Fabric
5. Boil	Boil the mixture to allow the dye to bond with the fabric.	Heat source
6. Rinse and Dry	Remove the fabric, rinse it, and let it air dry.	Water

The color from strawberries is often a light pink or blush tone, and the color can fade over time.
For better color retention, use natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
According to the reference, you are making an environmentally friendly dye at home.