Are you an artistic person who has an eye for details and is looking for the best plants for eco printing to use in your project?
Eco printing creates prints of leaves or flowers, using natural pigments. The tannins and acids found in the leaves or flowers combine with the mordants, moisture, and heat on fabric to make the prints. The process has been around for quite some time now, but its popularity is increasing because of the demand for more sustainable products.
The dye comes naturally from inside the plants to create beautiful prints. It is important to know that not all plant-based inks are eco-friendly. Only those that meet certain criteria can be labeled as such.
The term “eco-friendly” is used to describe products that are environmentally friendly. This means that they are made from natural resources, and they do not harm the environment in any way. For this reason, we will look at the top best plants for eco printing.
Best Plants For Eco Printing:
These plants are not just beautiful but also environmentally friendly. So why not give them a try?
Crocosmia – Pink Beauty
Crocosmia ‘Pink Beauty’ is a flowering plant that has tubular flowers in various colors, including red, yellow, and orange. The flowers grow on long arching stems. Well-drained soil is ideal for this plant and it will benefit from regular watering. This plant is easy to grow and is great for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. The plant can be grown indoors or outdoors. It grows best in full sun or light shade.
Marigold
Marigolds are beautiful flowers that come in various colors including multicolor, orange, red, white, and yellow. These popular cheerful flowers are great for attracting butterflies. Marigolds grow best in full or partial sun and will grow in just about any soil but do best in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.
Geranium
Geraniums are known for their stunning blooms which come in a variety of different colors including multicolor, pink, purple, red, and white. They are easy to grow, can grow indoors and outdoors, and emit a lovely scent. Geraniums grow best in full sun and a well-draining potting mixture.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus trees have silvery to blue-green color leaves that have a wonderful fragrant smell. In the wild, they can grow as tall as 60 feet but in most gardens they will grow to be 6-10 feet tall. They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Pelargonium ‘Black Knight’
Pelargonium ‘Black Knight’ is a perennial with large, purple-colored flowers with light centers. The plant has a long flowering period and makes a lovely bush plant. They add an elegant touch to any garden.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a type of plant that is used in eco-printing. It is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, and it has been used for thousands of years to make a variety of goods. Bamboo can be used to make many things including clothes, fabric, furniture, and more.
Read more about The Best Plants For Eco Printing
Strawberries
Strawberries are a type of fruit that is used in eco-printing. They are a popular fruit that is used in many different ways. Strawberries are typically used in jams and jellies, but they can also be used to make ink.
The Benefits Of Using Eco-printing Ink:
Using the best plants for eco printing has a lot of benefits.
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- It can help the environment because it is made from renewable resources. This makes it more sustainable than other types of ink.
- This ink is also easy to use.
- The eco-printing ink is also biodegradable. It also does not harm the environment in any way.
- It is also safe for the people who use it. It is also safer than other types of ink.
- It is also better for the environment because it uses less energy.
Take Home
The best plants for eco printing are listed above. Remember, this list is not complete without you sharing the plants that work best for you. Let us know in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plants are good for eco printing?
Plants can be used in eco printing. Both leaves and flowers can be used in the process of eco printing. You can eco print on a variety of goods including paper and clothes.
Which leaves are used in eco printing?
Most if not all leaves are good for eco printing. Some of the most commonly used are, Oak, Black Walnut, Birch, Maple, Eucalyptus, Alder, Gum Tree and Sumac.
How do you eco print with leaves?
To eco print, stat by mordanting the fabric and then soak the plant materials. Place your leaves or flowers int the fabric then fold it over or cover it with a second piece of fabric. Next, tightly roll the fabric onto a PVC pipe or large stick. Steam or simmer the rolled fabric and then unroll.
Can you eco print with dry leaves?
Yes, you can eco print with dry leaves. In fact, letting the leaves dry some can be beneficial.
