ECO PRINTING

Also known as botanical printing; eco printing in the process of transferring natural pigments from plants, food waste, and other natural materials onto prepared (mordanted) cloth or paper. The materials are tightly bundled together to create contact between them, which are then steamed to bind the process. This method creates a long lasting transfer of natural dyes and pigments from the plants/materials themselves. Different materials yield varied results on different types of fiber. A sugar maple leaf may dye a different shade on cotton rather than silk, for example. Eco printing is practiced around the world, and is focused on creating sustainably rather than utilizing toxic chemicals and dyes, which is what fast fashion has led us to believe is good for our bodies and the environment. Over the past couple of years I have experimented with many different plant species and food waste throughout various places in New England, constantly learning and enjoy every moment of its magical splendor.