I also use the technique of eco-dyeing in my art practice. This process involves using heat to draw out the natural pigments of leaves and other plant material to make marks on a surface.
I see it as another form of printing, where instead of paint or ink, I'm using the natural colours of the leaves. I specialise in printing onto paper, where the basic process is the same as fabric but with less emphasis on mordants.
The process I use involves folding the papers, inserting plant material into each fold, securing the bundle tight, then boiling in hot water for approximately 30 minutes. There are a variety of methods including steaming and cold processing, but I use the boil method.
The slideshow below features some work in progress, as well as a selection of artist books that I have made with my eco-dyed prints.
I see it as another form of printing, where instead of paint or ink, I'm using the natural colours of the leaves. I specialise in printing onto paper, where the basic process is the same as fabric but with less emphasis on mordants.
The process I use involves folding the papers, inserting plant material into each fold, securing the bundle tight, then boiling in hot water for approximately 30 minutes. There are a variety of methods including steaming and cold processing, but I use the boil method.
The slideshow below features some work in progress, as well as a selection of artist books that I have made with my eco-dyed prints.