Notes

The indigiferna tinctoria was planted during Thailand’s rainy season in June. By September or October, the plants are ready to be pruned and used for making dye. Bundle the small leaf Indiofera tinctoria leaves together using stems as ties. The larger leaf varieties of indigo like Strobilanthes flaccidifolius can go straight into the bins. Water is added to the bins. Heavy stones are used to press the color from the leaves during an overnight soak. The covered bins need to sit for about 24 hours, depending on the weather. After 24 hours, the water will turn blue after fermenting overnight. The bundles are drained and removed. The plants are used for fertilizer. 2% builders lime is gently mixed into the colored water. The water and lime must be beaten for about 20 minutes – dipping the bowl in and out – oxidizing the mixture. The water changes from murky green to peacock blue to a frothy navy color. When the mixture turns frothy and navy-colored it is almost ready. After the indigo paste precipitated to the bottom of the bin overnight, carefully remove the brown water from the top. The paste is then collected by pouring it over mesh, then through a fine cotton cloth