Mordants & Modifiers: Where the Magic Happens

Ever wondered how one dye pot can produce a whole range of colors? In this episode of Inside the Dye Studio, we’re diving into the fascinating world of mordants and modifiers—the behind-the-scenes chemistry that makes natural dyeing so endlessly surprising. Learn how mordants help color bond to fiber, how modifiers like acids and alkalines can dramatically shift a color, and why the same dye can produce completely different results with just a small change in the process. Along the way, I’ll share some of my favorite dye pot experiments, unexpected color transformations, and a few lessons learned from years of natural dyeing. Whether you’re a fiber artist, a curious maker, or simply someone who loves color, this episode offers a glimpse into the science, history, and magic behind naturally dyed yarn. One dye pot. Endless possibilities.