Natural Dye - Red Sandalwood

Red Sandalwood Powder, sometimes known as Barn Red, is a traditional natural dye made from the finely ground wood of Pterocarpus santalinus. It produces warm rose, coral and reddish-brown tones that bring a soft, earthy richness to textiles.

Unlike fully soluble dye extracts, red sandalwood works by releasing colour gradually when the powder is gently simmered in a dye bath. This process allows the pigment to develop naturally, creating subtle variations in tone and a distinctive matte finish that adds character to dyed fibres and fabrics.

The result is colour that feels organic and understated, making red sandalwood a favourite for makers who appreciate the depth and individuality that natural dyes can provide.

Benefits

• Produces warm rose, coral and reddish-brown shades
• Creates soft, earthy tones with a natural matte finish
• Ideal for subtle, layered colour effects
• Adds depth and character to artisan textile projects

Perfect For

• Dyeing wool, silk and linen for artisan textile projects
• Eco-printing and natural pigment blends
• Layering with madder or kamala to deepen red tones

Technical

• 100% ground Red Sandalwood wood powder.
  
• Produces coral to brick-red hues.
• Use 50–100% WOF for strong shades.
• Works on wool, silk, cotton, and linen.
• Best results with Alum mordant.