Morris & Co. Merton Abbey: Indigo Vats
| Area | Merton |
|---|---|
| Copyright 1 | Collection of Merton Library Services |
| Picture Reference | MerMor_19_8-5 |
| Original Format | Photo |
| Notes / History | Large vats of indigo dye were used to colour the cloth. It was a skilled job to ensure that the mix was correct. Most of the workers would end up with 'blue' hands and arms. Indigo has been used in England since the 13th Century. A process called 'Indigo Release' removed the indigo dye from the cloth to form the pattern. This was done using bleach or a similar chemical. William Morris championed the more traditional methods in all his activities. |
