Madder powder (Rubia Cordifolia) - 200gm

Madder Root Powder – Rubia cordifolia

Madder is one of the oldest and most beloved natural dyes, prized for its ability to produce a wide range of reds, pinks, and warm rust tones. Made from the dried and ground roots of Rubia cordifolia, this powder works beautifully on both protein and cellulose fibres, especially when used with alum or iron mordants.

With alum, expect soft peach to brick reds. Add calcium carbonate or chalk to shift colours toward coral and orange-red. Use iron for richer, plum or burgundy tones. Madder is ideal for immersion dyeing, and can also be used in bundle-dyeing and ink making.

Botanical name: Rubia cordifolia
Colour range: Peach, pink, red, rust, burgundy (depending on mordant and modifiers)
Recommended mordants: Alum for bright reds, iron for deeper tones
Fibre compatibility: Suitable for wool, silk, cotton, linen, and other natural fibres
Form: Fine root powder
Light & washfastness: Good to excellent
Use rate: 10–20% weight of fibre (WOF) for medium to deep shades

Soak powder in warm water and allow to rest before straining or applying. Can be used in multiple dye baths to extract full depth of colour.

Botanical name: Rubia cordifolia
Colour range: Blush pink to deep red and purple
Use on: Plant and protein fibres
Mordant: Recommended (alum or iron)
Weight of fibre: Use at 20% or more weight of fibre

A beautiful and versatile plant dye that is connected a long history of colour-making.