The basic principle of eco printing is that various leaves and plant materials (fresh or dried) possess tannins that have the innate ability to print permanent color onto fabric fibers when combined with the proper technique and procedure. Eco printing is directly related to the art of dyeing with natural plant materials. The process usually involves some form of heat and pressure to create a distinctive print.
First, we have to prepare our leaves and flowers for printing by soaking it overnight in water with vinegar(1-1). It helps to release a pigment easier on the fabric later.
We have to prepare our fabric as well by washing it in Synthrapol and then soaking it in Alum mixed with water(Usually one tablespoon on 100g of cloth). It helps the fabric “receive ” natural pigments easier.
The next day we will lay our leaves on the wet fabric and then roll it tight and secure it with rubber bands then we will place those rolls in the bamboo basket and let it sit on a top pan with boiling water for 1 hour or more. Turn off the heat and let it cool off, but resist opening your bundle till much later(maybe even the next day).
When you finally open it, you will see how leaves and flowers left their imprint on your fabric. Don’t wash right away, let colors set in even more, but you can remove the flora.
