Natural Dyeing
AfroRicky Organique exclusively uses natural dyes of plant and mineral origin in its collections, a decision made to embrace a sustainable fashion route. This includes utilizing local resources, from inputs to labour from community workers in Maputo. For our team, it has been a surprising creative experience. Natural dyes can vary the result, depending on the type of soil and climate in which the plants were grown. One of the
common myths is that plants produce only pale colours. This is untrue. There are plants that produce dyes in vibrant shades of blues, greens, reds, and yellows that can last a very long time. The secret to vivid and long-lasting colours is proper preparation.
For quality results, the yarns and fabrics need to be properly cleaned before dyeing. Mordants are also required to fix the colours. Mordant is a substance associated with dyeing with the specific function of maintaining colour durability, providing greater resistance to washing and exposure to the sun. Unlike the industry that uses polluting chemical mordants, natural dyeing can be associated with mordants of plant origin, such as tannin (substance extracted from the bark of some plants) or mineral such as potassium alum, stannous chloride, and ferrous sulphate that are environmentally safe.
AfroRicky Organique has made significant strides in the realm of natural dyes for large-scale production. Utilizing a meticulous process involving boiling plants and roots, we extract vibrant colours that undergo dehydration to enhance longevity. Notably, this method eliminates the need for preservatives or harmful additives, aligning with eco-conscious practices.
While the current colouring process remains manual, plans are underway to introduce machinery and tanks to streamline and enhance production efficiency at the factory. This strategic move signals a commitment to innovation and scalability, ensuring sustainable practices are at the forefront of our operations.
