Did you know that indigo
- was once referred to as “Blue Gold?”
- occurs naturally in various plants (and mollusks) found all over the world?
- was independently discovered and cultivated by diverse and distant cultures throughout history?
- is still associated with political power and religious ritual?
- was used by the Romans as a pigment for painting as well as for medicinal and cosmetic purposes?
The earliest examples of indigo-dyed textiles trace back to numerous cultures throughout history: from the mummies of ancient Egypt and Peru (both over 6,000 years ago), to the manuscripts of Mesopotamia (2,600 years ago), where cuneiform tablets were found with the recipe for dying wool blue. Most cultures developed resist techniques for creating patterned indigo fabrics, and each has their own unique tradition and characteristics, from the folded shibori of Japan to the wax batiks of India. Even today, every pair of blue jeans you see has been dip-dyed in an indigo vat, using the same dye and process we’ve been using for millennia.
The color Indigo is an extremely popular all year round. It is being used for hair, nails, scarves, handkerchiefs, shirts, interior design such as throw pillow, blankets, sheets, chair and couch covers, accent walls and lamp shades. Take a look at Jacquard’s Pinterest board all about the love of Indigo for some inspiration! Pinterest Indigo Inspiration With Jacquard’s indigo kit available through MacPherson’s (item number JAC9410, MSRP $11.99) this trend is brought to the backyard dyer in the safest and easiest to use formulation ever available – all you need is a bucket of water and a sink or hose! This unique and essential dyeing experience is now accessible to anyone, even children can be involved in the magic of watching the dipped fabric change from bright green to deep blue as the indigo oxidizes and becomes permanent. With a resurgence of interest in indigo and “ethnic” patterns in the fashion world, this kit is sure to be a favorite with almost anyone who tries it.
httpv://youtu.be/X3QYrVp5YEc
