Aluminum Acetate

$18.00$50.00

In stock

Description

Aluminum acetate is a purified mordant powder that creates bright colors on plant fibers. It is an alternative mordant to traditional tannins. Mordanting is an important step in natural dyeing as it helps improve light and washfastness. Its purpose is to provide a bond between the fiber and the dye molecule. Without a mordant bond, natural dye colors will fade, change color and wash out.

Detailed instructions on working with aluminum acetate are available here. We recommend using either calcium carbonate (chalk) or wheat bran with aluminum acetate.

Please note that this is a very powdery product. It wafts easily and smells like acetic acid, so a dust mask or respirator and good ventilation is recommended when using it to avoid irritation. It is astringent and may dry hands, so wear gloves to protect skin. Keep away from children and pets.

If you prefer to use only tannins for plant fiber mordanting, we offer a variety of alternative tannins that may be used. Please be aware that tannins will create a different shade than aluminum acetate but these ingredients are also part of a long tradition of natural dyeing and worthy of experimentation.

You may also wish to experiment using tannin with an aluminum sulfate bath, which is another historical mordanting method. Check out the information on tannin-alum mordant procedures here.

Additional information

Weight 560 g
Dimensions 9.5 × 8 × 2.25 in
Weight

4 oz (113 g), 8 oz (227 g), 16 oz (454g)

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