Lichen Dyes: The New Source Book

by Karen Diadick Casselman

Lichens are curious plants, composed of fungi and algae that often resemble splotches of paint peeling from rocks or wood. They have been used to create brilliant, versatile dyes for over 4,000 years. In this comprehensive guide based on 25 years of meticulous research, noted textile designer and lichen expert Karen Casselman explains how to create and use dyes derived from these unusual plants.
The text begins with a fascinating history of such Asian and European lichen pigments as Phoenician purple, Roman murex, Florentine orchil, and Norwegian korkje. Consideration of Scottish, Irish, and Scandinavian domestic lichen dyes follows, as well as those used in colonial America. Also discussed at length are safe dyeing methods, with special attention to equipment and preparation of the fiber; ecologically sound dyeing techniques and the use of mordants (substances used to fix dyes); lichen identification; and more. A final section includes charts of lichen dye names and ingredients, additives and alternative mordants, international field guides, useful bibliographies, indices, and other information.
Well written, informative, and filled with expert advice, this excellent guide will be indispensable to novices and experienced dyers who wish to learn the age-old art and craft of dyeing with lichens.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature, Crafts

96 pages, Paperback

First published May 14, 2001

Reviews

[Tamhack · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good source for using lichens for dyeing. The only thing I wished was that the common lichen names were used and more illustrations of colors.

Summary: https://www.amazon.com/Lichen-Dyes-Ne...
"Lichens are curious plants, composed of fungi and algae that often resemble splotches of paint peeling from rocks or wood. They have been used to create brilliant, versatile dyes for over 4,000 years. In this comprehensive guide based on 25 years of meticulous research, noted textile designer and lichen expert Karen Casselman explains how to create and use dyes derived from these unusual plants.
The text begins with a fascinating history of such Asian and European lichen pigments as Phoenician purple, Roman murex, Florentine orchil, and Norwegian korkje. Consideration of Scottish, Irish, and Scandinavian domestic lichen dyes follows, as well as those used in colonial America. Also discussed at length are safe dyeing methods, with special attention to equipment and preparation of the fiber; ecologically sound dyeing techniques and the use of mordants (substances used to fix dyes); lichen identification; and more. A final section includes charts of lichen dye names and ingredients, additives and alternative mordants, international field guides, useful bibliographies, indices, and other information.
Well written, informative, and filled with expert advice, this excellent guide will be indispensable to novices and experienced dyers who wish to learn the age-old art and craft of dyeing with lichens."

[Horus · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a passing fancy with the idea of dyeing and growing dyestuffs. This book was given to me some years ago as part of a late friend's collection. Diadick Casselman is very competent writer and obviously, from her text, very passionate about the subject. Despite the short length, this book is packed full of information and suggestions as to how to proceed to research further if that is your bent. There is some history here too, for those interested in that end of things, as well as a very strong recognition that lichens are slow growing and unlike mushrooms, do not replenish themselves every year after harvesting. She has a very strong environmental ethic that comes through loud and clear, but if dyeing with lichens interests you, I would strongly suggest starting with this book.