The Art of Eco Prints

Using Plants to Create Unique and Striking Textile Designs

Understanding Eco Prints

Eco Prints, also known as botanical printing, is a modern and innovative technique that relies on ancient and traditional natural dyeing methods. This technique uses plants to create unique and striking prints on natural surfaces. The process of using plants to extract colors for dyeing textiles has a long history, dating back to prehistoric times. Over the centuries, our ancestors developed a wealth of knowledge about the colors that could be obtained from different plants. However, with the advent of synthetic dyes and the industrial revolution, the popularity of natural dyeing methods waned.

A Resurgence of Interest

In recent years, there is a huge interest in Eco Prints. People are once again discovering the beauty and uniqueness of ancient natural dyeing technique, but now with a modern twist. Eco Prints are now considered a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes, and it’s a perfect way to bring a touch of nature into your home. The art of botanical printing is evolving as more people experiment with different plants, leaves, flowers and barks to create new and unique colors and patterns.

The Unique Process of Eco Prints

Eco prints reveal the secrets of nature’s colors by using the plants in our immediate environment to create unique and lasting prints on fabric. Unlike traditional natural dyeing methods, which rely on a well-known list of plants with reliable pigments, Eco Prints allows for more freedom in choosing materials and creating designs. The process of discovering the colors that different plants can produce on fabric is a journey of trial and error, leading to a deeper understanding of the botanical world. Examples include the use of red hibiscus to produce a blue/purple color on fabric and various eucalyptuses that can print a red color despite being completely green.

Mordant and Sustainability

Eco prints requires a preliminary step called “mordant” to prepare the fabrics for printing. Mordant is the process of dipping the fabric in a solution of various substances, which enables the connection between the pigment and the fibers of the fabric and allows for the organic substances in the plants to be visible on the fabric. This process is similar to the use of binding agents in modern industrial fabric printing, but with the added benefit of being non-toxic and more environmentally friendly than industrial  fabric dyeing methods. However, some argue that the mordant process itself is not environmentally friendly enough, but overall, eco printing is considered to be a more sustainable option compared to other alternatives.

Eco Print Workshops

Eco prints are designs created by nature itself on fabrics. They are the most authentic, natural and original designs that can be achieved. Clothing made from eco print fabrics are not just a fashion item, but also a statement of one’s values and many individuals take interest in attending eco print workshops to learn the technique and create their own textile pieces.

A popular online course  is the “The Full Palette” eco prints course, which is a popular choice for those interested in learning about the plants and colors that can be used for eco prints, as well as the unique methods used to transfer plant patterns onto fabrics with various effects. The workshop is held online and includes 62 instructional video lessons that demonstrate the process of botanical printing. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced students, and upon completion, participants will have a deep understanding of the processes and be able to achieve beautiful results on fabrics. The workshop is conducted in English and subtitled in Spanish, French, Italian, Hebrew and Russian. Participants will also have the opportunity to join a virtual community of individuals from all over the world who share their experiences, works, and consult with each other.

Another workshop is the “Monochromatic” eco prints course, which focuses on creating botanical prints using a limited color palette. This workshop is ideal for those who want to master the art of creating beautiful and cohesive designs using a specific range of colors. The workshop is also held online and includes instructional videos, detailed instructions and a virtual community for participants to share their work and receive feedback.

Creating your own Eco Prints

Creating your own Eco Prints at home is relatively easy. All you need is a selection of plants, natural fibers, a mordant solution, and a little creativity. You can experiment with different plants, leaves, flowers and barks to create new and unique colors and patterns. The process is a bit of trial and error, but with some practice, you will be able to achieve beautiful results on fabrics. You can even create your own mordant solution using natural ingredients such as vinegar or alum.

Using Eco Prints in Fashion and Home Decor

Eco Prints are not only beautiful, but also sustainable and eco-friendly. They are a perfect way to bring a touch of nature into your home and wardrobe. Clothing made from eco print fabrics are not just a fashion item, but also a statement of one’s values. They are perfect for those who want to make a statement with their clothing without compromising on style or sustainability. Eco prints can also be used in home decor, such as curtains, tablecloths, and cushion covers, to add a natural touch to any room.