ORANGE DYE FROM COSMOS FLOWERS

MATERIALS:

Cosmo flowers

Apple cider vinegar (optional)

Water (rain or tap)

Pot

Utensil to stir

Strainer

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Orange cosmos are PH sensitive, which means achieving various orange tones is possible from yellows, orange, rust, coral and red. For deeper oranges the PH levels need to be higher, achievable by adding apple cider vinegar.  

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Firstly, clean the flowers and remove the stalks and leaves so doesn't alter the colour. Set a pot of water to simmer (not boil) and add the flowers- they're quite pigmented so don't need too many, i used a small cupful. Stir continuously and let simmer for around 30 mins- 1 hour. Once this time is up the dye should appear a deep red colour in which is ready to sieve and use. 

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