Welsh Blankets
Botanical Inks - Customers' Questions
Customer Questions
These are the most asked questions to us during Workshops (sorry we no longer offer In-Person Botanical Ink Workshops) and in emails to us. This Page is regualry updated for new questions. In no particular order, but the most often question is first on the list!
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What are Botanical Inks?
Botanical inks are natural inks, usually handmade in small batches, made from pigments extracted from plants, flowers, roots, and other botanical materials. They are an artisan product, not a mass-produced product.
Our botanical inks are made using our tried and tested recipes as well as historical formulae and only natural ethically sourced ingredients. Plant, insect and mineral pigments with natural binders. The result, a botanical ink in extraordinary colours from nature.
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Are Botanical Inks and Eco-friendly Product?
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Unlike synthetic inks made from chemicals, botanical inks are a more sustainable and eco-friendly option. In most exmpale, they are
- Biodegradeable: Botanical inks decompose naturally compared to their petroleum-based inks.
- Renewable Resources: Plants used for ink production can be replanted, ensuring a sustainable cycle.
- Reduced Toxicity: Since botanical inks come from natural sources, they often pose less risk to human health and the environment during production and disposal.
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Are Botanical Inks safe to use?
Yes, but as always some care an attention is required. Botanical inks are generally safe to use as they are made from natural materials. However, some plants can be toxic, so it’s important to know what plants you’re using and to handle them safely.
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What Colours are Botanical Inks?
The colours you can achieve with botanical inks depend on the plants you use. They will often be unique and have a depth of colour not seen in synthetic dyes.
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Do Botanical Ink Colours Fade?
This is a factor you must be aware of - some inks are well known for not fading, others not! In general, inks made from stronger dyes like madder root or indigo will fade less than those made from more delicate flowers or leaves.
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What are the Benefits of using Botanical Inks?
- Sustainable: Botanical inks are a more sustainable alternative to synthetic inks, which are often made from harmful chemicals.
- Unique Colours: Botanical inks can create a beautiful range of natural colours that can't be replicated with synthetics.
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Non-toxic: Botanical inks are generally safe for use and less likely to cause allergic reactions than synthetic inks.
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Can I Make Botanical Inks at Home?
Yes in a word! Like many craft processes, making such inks can be a rewarding and also an enjoyable expereince.
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What do you Enjoy Most in Making Botanical Inks?
I like making handmade things - such as hand dyed yarn, or being a tutor on our Natural Dye Workshops. I always say, handmade products can always be repeated but they will never exactly be the same as they are always unique. In my opinion this is part of the beauty of a handmade product, never quite knowing how they will turn out!
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Can Botanical Inks be used for Painting?
Yes, botanical inks can be used for water colour painting. They can provide a range of beautiful, earthy colours that are perfect for landscapes, botanical illustrations, and more.
Remember, if you have any other questions about botanical inks, don’t hesitate to ask!
FelinFach Botanical Inks
Our botanical inks are handmade in small batches using our tried and tested recipes as well as historical formulae and only natural ethically sourced ingredients. Plant, insect and mineral pigments with natural binders. The result, a botanical ink in extraordinary colours from nature.
About FelinFach
Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...
NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.
- Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets.
- Hand dyed yarn, dyed with natural dyes only.Hand poured candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
- Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
- Yarn shop, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters.
- Welsh Gifts, souvenirs, made in Wales, handmade in Wales.
We are a proud supporter of Americymru, the Campaign for Wool, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.
Last updated 10th June 2024
