From the page: Glass that was waiting for a second chance
Idea 9
Iron mordant for dyeing wood and fabric
Iron mordant is an old woodworker's and weaver's recipe: nails or steel wool soaked in vinegar create iron acetate, which darkens tannin-rich wood to walnut and ebony tones, and sets color on natural fabric. The glass bottle is the ideal flask because it doesn't react with the acid — something plastic and metal can't guarantee. It's true alchemy, with three ingredients.
What you need
- Lidded glass bottle
- Fine steel wool or rusty nails
- White vinegar
- A separate glass jar for testing
How to make it
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1
Place the steel wool or nails inside the bottle and cover with vinegar. The reaction of iron with acetic acid is what creates the dye.
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2
Poke a hole in the lid or don't close it completely — the reaction releases gas and a sealed bottle can burst. Safety first.
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3
Let it rest 24 to 48 hours, shaking occasionally. The longer it sits, the darker the result.
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4
Strain and test on a small piece of wood: wood with lots of tannin (ipe, oak) darkens quickly; pine reacts little and may need tannin tea beforehand.
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5
Apply with a cloth in the direction of the wood grain and let dry; finish with wax or oil.
Finishing touches
on cotton fabric, dip it wet and let it soak for a few hours — the iron sets and darkens. Wear gloves: it stains skin for a few days.
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