Sourced from South America, meaning this wool is from non-mulesed sheep.
Before each hat is crocheted, I dye the wool by hand, using naturally sourced plant or food waste dyes. I always dye in small batches, and never make a hat in the same size from the same wool batch, meaning every hat is completely unique!
This particular hat was dyed using:
Earl Grey left-over tea bags. Tea is naturally strong in tannins so rich brown colours are quickly created. Each small dye batch varies based on brand and quantities used.
Avocado, a combination of stones and skins from the fruit. Extracting the dye takes a few days of simmering and soaking, varying shades of pinks and oranges are created. Each small dye batch varies so much based on seasonality, quantities and where they are sourced from.
Stinging Nettle, foraged from woodland and bridleways in the Surrey Hills, where I live. Extracting the dye takes a few days of simmering and soaking, varying shades of green and taupe are created. Each small dye batch varies so much based on seasonality, quantities and whether I choose to use just the top leaves or the whole plant.
Every hat tells a story.
After Care
Naturally anti-bacterial, and odour resistant, you should hardly ever need to wash your hat. But if you do feel you need to wash it:
Hand wash cold with a pH neutral soap. Dry flat on a towel to keep its shape.
