Posted by Rachel Westall on 1 April 2025
I started the company. In the beginning it was a textile art project, where a lot of research went into using plants and other natural pigments for use on textiles but as an art form. Slowly, I concluded that I wanted to raise awareness on the use of natural dyes as a valid alternative to create colour for our clothes. From this, I wanted to create the shop where they have 'everything' that has to do with natural dyes, and while that was an ambitious plan, I have indeed succeeded to have a very diverse offering of natural dyes, mordants and blank textiles available for my clients.
How has the company evolved?
At first, I offered mainly finished items using various plants for printing (eco-printing) but that changed to becoming a full-fledged online supply store. I don't mind a challenge, so it was important for me to work with small farmers and local weavers who still create artisanal cloth. That means you have to overcome language barriers, different approaches on doing business and last but not least: how to ship all those precious materials. Not always easy but one of the things I enjoy doing most.
My big love is sourcing the rarest dyes like kermes and murex, and I'm really good in teaching how to use these dyes. What gives me the most satisfaction though is my work with small-business weavers (mostly women) in rural areas to set them up for success. By purchasing their weaves up front for above market price, they can grow and prosper. I only ever want to work in this business if it creates a win for everyone.
Talk us through the current products you're particularly excited about. Do you have a favourite?
Oooh can I only pick one? Then it must be the latest addition to the handwoven fabric family! It's a handspun cotton weft on a mulberry warp, and this creates the most delicious fabric that has a bit of shine but is also rustic. I love it so much that I dyed four meters of it and had a beautiful dress made for a red-carpet event of the movie 'Let them be Naked' a documentary exposing the harm done by industrial textile practices today.
Absolutely! Natural dyes are booming. People really enjoy crafting their own clothes and going back to old traditions. I think the yearning to the 'good old times' in combination with a wish for a more ecofriendly and sustainable lifestyle has been tangible. But then again, it's all I do and talk about every day, so I'm probably biased.
How would you advise a retailer who is interested in stocking your products?
You really need to know how to work with natural dyes and how to educate your clients. I'd highly recommend making some kind of starter set and organising a small workshop to reel people in. It's a very addictive craft once they get their hands dirty and return customers are guaranteed.
What sets you apart from your competitors?
My research never ends, and I share that knowledge through my blogs. I'm keen to build a community around natural dye crafts which has resulted in many community projects and a Facebook group of 20,000 participants.
I'm currently traveling a lot to research natural dyes in local settings like Indonesia, Mexico, and India, that leaves me no time for any trade shows, but I keep my options open.
What are you looking forward to most over the next year?
More of everything! I get to meet so many amazing artisans. I also hope to finish writing a book about natural dyeing.
What new products can we expect from you in the future?
God willing, there will be many more handwoven fabrics to share with the world, they deserve to be up front and centre, for every crafter.
DekelDyes
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