Mimosa

Mimosa  (lat. Mimosa pudica) is a fascinating plant with unique characteristics beyond its application in natural dyeing. The organic mimosa dye derived from this plant is rich in tannins, which makes it a versatile option for both organic mordant and dye purposes.

When using mimosa dye, the tannins present not only contribute to color fixation but also enhance the durability of the dye on fabrics. The dyeing process with mimosa pudica is often appreciated for the warm and earthy shades it imparts, making it a valuable addition to the palette of natural dyers.

Experimentation and exploration with mimosa dye provide an opportunity for artisans and dyers to delve into the rich world of natural dyes, combining traditional techniques with  beautiful and environmentally conscious textile creations.

Name: mimosa

Latin name: mimosa pudica

Other names: sensitive plant,  touch-me-not plant

Type: mordant dye, no-mordant dye

Part of plant used: bark

Main colorant: red-brown tannins that belong in the catechic tannins class plus other tannins and flavonoids

Main colors: shades from yellow to orange and reddish-brown

Purpose: natural dye for textiles, leather, wood, candles, and other natural materials. Can be used for making botanical inks, pastels, watercolors, printing paste, etc. Also, it can be used as an organic mordant for other dyes.

Dyeing with mimosa:

• Use 15-30 % WOF. 

• Add mimosa powder to the dye bath and stir well.

• Raise temperature to 70-90°C and simmer from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the desired colors. Let it cool. Longer simmering produces deeper, darker colors.

• Strain through a fine cloth to keep small particles out of the dye bath.

• Fibers, whether pre-mordanted or unmordanted, should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before adding to the dye solution. Mimosa gives more pinkish tones to white unmordanted fibers while alum mordanted fibers take up more orange and brownish tones. 

• Immerse fibers in the mimosa solution and simmer for 40-60 minutes or longer, depending on the desired shade. Allow the solution to cool. You may simmer and soak longer if you wish to get deep, dark tones.

• Experiment with additional iron mordant, pH variations. 

• You can modify colors after dyeing while soaking fibers in alkaline (soda ash), acid (citric acid, vinegar) or iron sulfate solutions. Mix chosen additive with water, add fibers and wait 5-30 minutes until color changes.

Additional information:

Please note that this is not mimosa hostilis.