Understanding the effect of soy milk binders
Protein fibres (wool and silk) are much easier to dye than plant-based/ cellulose fibres like cotton, because the proteins so readily absorb both acids and alkalis. Plant-based fibres have to be prepared with a mordant (a metallic salt) and sometimes tannins to help them absorb natural dyes. But when we prepare them with a soy milk binder, the proteins in the soy make the plant fibres behave as though they are a protein fibre. This means that leaves that produce good results on wool or silk can also be used on fabric prepared with soy milk. It also means that the fabric will absorb dye baths very well. We will be taking advantage of both of these attributes in our first project. Click next to begin.