Tea-dyeing, maybe not

Jul 16, 2006 4 Replies

I've just read that tea-dye contains tannic acid (tannin) and will destroy fabric in 30 to 40 years. I had always *assumed* that tea-dye was harmless and had never thought it could be hurtful, especially since it's so quickly recommended by so many. Many times, I've tea-dyed lace for trim on newborn size pink bonnets and hoped that baby's mom would save the little bonnet for baby's own daughter. I haven't had any visions of making a quilt that Boston would build a museum for but I suppose the effect of tea-dye on a baby bonnet or quilt would be the same. Perhaps tea-dye isn't such a good idea. Polly


Wouldn't the acid get washed out when you wash the quilt?

I just don't know, Kathy. Maybe some of our quilters will be dyeing to help us solve this one. (groan). Polly

Even here we're sweltering! . In message , Pat in Virginia writes

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required