One of the most satisfying parts of being prepared and self-reliant is learning how to make use of everything nature gives us. Whether you’re crafting clothes, creating art, or just adding beauty to your home, natural dyeing is a skill that connects you to age-old traditions.
Using plants to dye fabrics and yarn not only cuts down on the need for synthetic chemicals, but it also gives you a sense of control—knowing that you can create beautiful, lasting colors with what you grow or forage. These 15 plants are some of the best for natural dyeing and crafting, and chances are, you can find many of them right in your backyard.
Madder (Rubia tinctorum)
If you’re looking for a deep, rich red dye, madder is where it’s at. I’ve grown this plant myself, and its roots produce one of the most durable reds you’ll find in nature. It’s been used for centuries to dye everything from fabric to yarn. Madder thrives in many climates, so once you have it in your garden, you’ll have a reliable source of red for years.
Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria)
Indigo is famous for its stunning blue dye—yes, the same one used for traditional blue jeans. Though it takes a bit more work (it requires fermentation), the result is worth it. Growing indigo on your homestead is a rewarding way to ensure you always have access to this iconic color, especially if you’re preparing for long-term sustainability.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrod is a wildflower you’ve probably seen growing around your property, and it’s perfect for producing vibrant yellow dyes. I love how easy it is to harvest; you can simply pick the flowers, boil them, and get a beautiful yellow. It’s incredibly versatile, and you can get different shades based on the mordant you use.
Weld (Reseda luteola)
If you want a plant that’s known for its brilliant yellow dye, look no further than weld. This plant has been used for centuries to produce long-lasting yellow hues, and it’s simple to grow in sunny, well-drained soil. It’s one of those traditional plants that just keeps on giving, year after year.
Woad (Isatis tinctoria)
Woad gives you a soft blue dye that’s less intense than indigo but just as beautiful. It’s ideal for cooler climates, so if you’re in a region where indigo might struggle, woad is a fantastic alternative. Plus, it was the go-to blue dye in Europe for centuries, proving its worth in the world of natural dyeing.
Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis is one of my favorite plants because it serves a dual purpose—it’s great for pollinators and even better for crafting. The bright orange or golden dye it produces is stunning, and it’s easy to grow. Just harvest the flowers, and you’ve got an instant source of vibrant color.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
Black walnut trees grow wild in many places, and their husks produce a rich, warm brown dye that doesn’t even require a mordant. I’ve used black walnut for years to create everything from fabric dyes to wood stains. If you’ve got walnut trees around, don’t let those fallen husks go to waste!
Avocado (Persea americana)
You might not think of avocados as a dye plant, but their pits and skins produce gorgeous soft pinks and peach tones. While I don’t grow avocados myself, I always save the pits and skins from store-bought fruit to make dye. It’s a great way to use every part of the fruit, especially if you’re focused on reducing waste.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
If you’re growing hibiscus, you’ve got a beautiful plant for both crafting and herbal remedies. The flowers produce subtle reds and purples, perfect for softer, more delicate projects. The fact that hibiscus can also be used for teas is just another reason to love this plant.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Elderberries are a powerhouse plant. Not only are they great for immune-boosting syrups, but they also produce deep purples and blues that are perfect for dyeing. Just make sure you use ripe berries, as unripe elderberries can be toxic. This plant is a must-have if you’re aiming for both health benefits and natural crafting supplies.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric is well-known as a cooking spice, but it also produces an incredibly vibrant yellow dye. I grow turmeric for its health benefits, and having an extra source of bright yellow dye is just the icing on the cake. While the color can fade over time, it’s a great choice for short-term projects or adding a pop of color to your work.
Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana)
Pokeweed grows like crazy in many areas, and while the plant itself is toxic, the berries produce a stunning magenta or reddish-purple dye. Just be sure to handle it with care. I’ve used pokeweed for dyeing wool, and the color it gives is truly one of a kind.
Beetroot (Beta vulgaris)
Beets are great for your garden, and they’re even better for natural dyeing. The deep reds and pinks that come from beetroot are striking, and you can adjust the intensity of the color depending on how you process them. Plus, beets are easy to grow in most climates, making them a perfect dye source for preppers.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is not only a soothing herb for tea but also a fantastic source of soft yellow dye. I love growing chamomile because it’s easy to maintain, and it gives you both a natural remedy and a crafting resource. The gentle yellow it produces is perfect for creating light, calming tones in your fabric.
Onion Skins (Allium cepa)
One of the most accessible natural dyes comes from onion skins, especially yellow onions. Collecting onion skins from your kitchen is an easy way to produce beautiful oranges and browns. This is one of the simplest ways to get started with natural dyeing, and it requires no special growing skills—just a little patience!
