Alunia - BDL Natural Dyed Cotton T-shirt (Black Indigo)

Chinese gall, or "Wu Bei Zi" in traditional Chinese medicine, carries a long history of botanical wisdom. It is valued for its astringent and restorative properties, traditionally believed to purify, ground energy, and promote inner equilibrium. Chinese gall has a rich legacy as a cornerstone dye in heritage textile traditions. Its structure is exceptionally rich in natural tannic acid, imbuing it with deep, grounding pigment capabilities. The extracted dye offers an evocative spectrum of quiet neutrals, ranging from muted slate grey to dense charcoal black, achieved through precise temperature control and patient immersion.

The process of dyeing with Chinese gall involves simmering the crushed gallnuts in water to extract its dense, tannin-rich liquor. The fabric is immersed into the bath, allowing the organic compounds to deeply penetrate and bind with the fibers. After setting this dark, earthy foundation, the garment moves into a transformative second stage—an immersion in natural indigo. This dual-dyeing technique creates a nuanced, multi-dimensional depth where the cool ink-blue of indigo merges with the dark, grounded charcoal of Chinese gall. During this delicate transition, precise timing is essential. As the garment emerges from the vat, oxidation must be carefully controlled so the atmospheric blue harmonizes with the subtle, enduring soul of the botanical base.

Details:

• Hand dyed with Gall and Indigo
• 100% Cotton
• Designed with a relaxed fit and above-the-belt crop
• Each piece will have its own distinctive pattern
• Printed with our Alunia Botanic Dye Laboratory logo at the front and Botanic Dye Only motif on the back
• Labelled with a vintage Indigo dye tab
• Given that the dyeing process is done by hand, it is important to note that there may be variations in colour and occasional colour accumulation at specific points
• Please note actual colour and pattern may vary from product image