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Iron / Ferrous Sulphate

⚙️ Ferrous Sulphate (Iron Mordant)

Natural Dye Modifier – Deepens Shades & Enhances Tannin Reactions

Ferrous Sulphate, also known as iron mordant, is a traditional and essential tool in the natural dyer’s toolkit. Used in small quantities, this mineral salt modifies color by reacting with tannin-rich dyes to create deeper, cooler shades, such as olive greens, greys, charcoal, and black. It is particularly valued for its ability to shift and darken plant-based colors and improve lightfastness.

Key Features:

  • 100% pure ferrous sulphate 

  • Acts as a color modifier, especially effective with tannin-rich dyes (e.g. myrobalan, cutch, gallnut, pomegranate)

  • Creates muted greens, greys, and blacks when used with tannins

  • Improves light- and washfastness of many natural dyes

  • Can be used in dye baths, post-mordant dips, or printing pastes

Dyeing Notes:

  • Often used in post-mordanting to shift colors after dyeing

  • Reacts with natural tannins to form iron-tannin complexes

  • Use with caution—iron can weaken protein fibers (like wool and silk) in high concentrations

  • Ideal for achieving depth, moodiness, and contrast in botanical color palettes

  • Use 0.5–4% WOF (Weight of Fiber) 

  • Dissolve in water and use as a modifier bath after dyeing

  • Alternatively, add small amounts directly to the dye bath for subtle shifts

  • Always wear gloves and avoid inhalation when handling powders

Iron / Ferrous Sulphate

PriceFrom $5.00
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