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A collection of light pink squares of fabric, naturally dyed with avocado pits, is arranged on a white marble surface. A wooden spoon lies nearby, partially in view, next to a white-bottomed bowl. The fabric appears soft and gently wrinkled.
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How to Make Dye with Avocados

Learn how to make a beautiful pink natural dye with avocado pits and skins.
Prep Time7 days
Active Time1 day
Total Time8 days
Cost: £5

Equipment

  • Large Saucepan or Pot (big enough for your fabric with room to spare)
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Sieve or colander
  • Old muslin or cheesecloth
  • Soy milk (optional)

Materials

  • 8 avocado skins or pits per 250g fabric

Instructions

Pre-Treat the Fabric (Optional)

  • Prepare a pot of cool water and soy milk with a ratio of 1:5 milk to water. Soak for 12 hours.
  • Take the fabric out and spin in the washing machine to remove excess water. Hang to dry.
  • Once dry, briefly dip the fabric into the milk and dry it again. Repeat this dipping and drying process one more time.
  • Leave the dry fabric to cure for a week before you begin the dyeing process.

Dyeing the Fabric

  • Clean your avocado stones and skins thoroughly and place them in a large saucepan. Add enough water so that it will cover the fabric when you add it (but don't add it yet).
  • Bring the pot to a low boil, then reduce the heat and simmer very gently for at least 30 minutes.
  • Once you're happy with the colour, remove the stones or pits and strain the dye through a muslin or cheesecloth to remove all of the residue.
  • Add your fabric to the dye pot. Keep the fabric on a very low heat to keep it warm, or turn it off, as you prefer.
  • Leave the fabric in the dye pot for a full day and night, or until it reaches your desired shade, stirring every now and again so you get an even colour. 
  • The next day, take your fabric out and rinse it with a gentle detergent. Hang to dry.