Dyeing wooden beads: Crafting DIY jewellery

Andre Martin

Have a craft sesh and string an assortment of dyed timber beads together for a stunning necklace or bracelet. The subtle colours and mix of tones will match any number of outfits. Give this colourful DIY a go today!

Gather your supplies

1 tsp aluminium sulphate powder; water; wooden beads; 1 cup each chopped onion skins, blackberries and red cabbage; 2 Tbsp ground turmeric; stainless-steel saucepan; fine mesh sieve; 4 glass jugs

Here’s how

Step 1

Dissolve aluminium sulphate powder in 2 cups of water. Soak wooden beads in mixture overnight. Strain and leave beads to completely dry.

Andre Martin

Step 2

Combine first colour choice (here, blackberries) and 2 cups of water in saucepan. Put over a low heat.

Andre Martin

Step 3

Simmer for 20-45 minutes, stirring occasionally using a wooden spoon. The longer the mixture is simmered the more intense the dye colour will be.

Andre Martin

Step 4

Strain dye mixture through fine mesh sieve into 1 glass jug. Discard plant matter. Allow dye to cool. Repeat Steps 2-4 using remaining foods and glass jugs to make all dye colours.

Andre Martin

Step 5

Soak prepared beads in dyes over 2 nights. Turn beads occasionally to ensure even colour. You may choose to place a lid or similar item in jugs to keep beads submerged rather than floating. The finished colour of beads when dry will be considerably lighter than the wet beads at this stage.