Modification of materials

In this lesson, we will look at how we can make our own natural dyes for clothing. This lesson includes some physical activity and equipment beyond pen, paper or pencil. We recommend checking with a trusted adult before starting or doing the lesson with the trusted adult nearby.

Modification of materials

In this lesson, we will look at how we can make our own natural dyes for clothing. This lesson includes some physical activity and equipment beyond pen, paper or pencil. We recommend checking with a trusted adult before starting or doing the lesson with the trusted adult nearby.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. investigate and develop skills in modifying the appearance of materials including textiles and other manufactured materials e.g. dying and appliqué (safe vegetable dyes)
  2. use a wider, more complex range of materials, components and ingredients, taking into account their properties

Equipment

Scrap fabric (light coloured/white), Vegetables (e.g. beetroot, onions, red cabbage, saucepan, water, elastic bands, needle, thread

Content guidance

  • Equipment requiring safe usage.

Supervision

Adult supervision recommended.

Licence

This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.

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3 Questions

Q1.
More commonly, what dye is used on our clothes nowadays?
Au naturel.
Polyester.
Correct answer: Synthetic.
Tie dye.
Q2.
Why would a designer choose a specific material?
Correct answer: All of the above.
Because it is stretchy
Because it is water resistant
Because its expensive
Because its warm
Q3.
What colour would avocado skin dye your clothes?
Brown.
Green.
Correct answer: Pink.
Yellow.

3 Questions

Q1.
Why were clothes dyed in early civilisations? (Tick 2 boxes)
To show how old you are.
To show what job you had.
Correct answer: To show who you were affiliated to.
Correct answer: To show your social class.
Q2.
Which of the following are properties of silk? (Tick 2 boxes)
High density
Makes for heavy and comfortable clothing
Correct answer: Strongest natural fibre
Correct answer: Warm in winter, cool in summer
Q3.
We can create a natural dye from using what items? (Tick 2 boxes)
Correct answer: Bark
Hair
Correct answer: Insects
Urine

Lesson appears in

UnitDesign and technology / Understanding fibres and fabrics

Design and technology