Dyeing wool, silk and protein fibers

A really great resource for dyeing wool, either fleece, roving or yarn, is the Twisted Sister's Sock Workbook. Check out the groups about dyeing on ravelry as well: "Dying to learn to dye", for example.

Soon I will post the methods I personally use for dyeing fleece here. It's been a bit of trial and error, so I hope to help you learn from my mistakes! No doubt though, dyeing my own fleece and roving has been great. The colours are second to none, and spinning hand painted roving is like watching the northern lights dance before your eyes. It's worth the effort to learn.

A final note. Acid dyes are safe, but you should take precautions when using them, especially if your workplace is your kitchen. Please follow the safety instructions that dye manufacturers provide! And never use your dyeing pots and other tools for food! But I don't need to tell you that, do I?

Photo: Mike Wade