Mushrooms to Dye (with)

Mushrooms have been used for centuries as natural sources of dyes and pigments. The Pacific Northwest is home to a variety of mushrooms that can be used as paints or dyes. These mushrooms contain natural compounds that can create vibrant colors when extracted. Here are some of the most notable mushrooms found in the Pacific Northwest that can be used as natural dyes and paints.

• Lobster Mushroom (Hypomyces lactifluorum) - The lobster mushroom is a bright orange-red color and can be used to dye fabric or create watercolor paints. The pigment can be extracted with alcohol or vinegar.
  
  

• Dyer's Polypore (Phaeolus schweinitzii) - The dyer's polypore has a bright yellow color that can be extracted with boiling water or ammonia. It can be used to dye wool, silk, and cotton.
  
  

• Red-Belted Polypore (Fomitopsis pinicola) - The red-belted polypore has a beautiful reddish-brown color that can be extracted with boiling water. It can be used to dye wool, silk, and cotton.
  
  

• Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) - The turkey tail mushroom has a beautiful mix of colors that can be extracted with boiling water. It can be used to dye wool, silk, and cotton.
  
  

• Golden Jelly Fungus (Tremella mesenterica) - The golden jelly fungus has a bright yellow-orange color that can be extracted with hot water. It can be used to dye fabric or create watercolor paints.
  
  

• Indigo Milk Cap (Lactarius indigo) - The indigo milk cap has a vibrant blue color that can be extracted with hot water. It can be used to dye wool, silk, and cotton.
  
  

• Bleeding Tooth Fungus (Hydnellum peckii) - The bleeding tooth fungus has a bright red color that can be extracted with boiling water or alcohol. It can be used to dye fabric or create watercolor paints.
  
  

While these mushrooms can produce beautiful colors, it is important to handle them with care. Some mushrooms can be toxic or cause allergic reactions, so it is best to wear gloves when handling them. Additionally, always properly identify mushrooms before using them for dyes or paints.

In conclusion, mushrooms found in the Pacific Northwest can be a great source of natural dyes and paints. With proper identification and handling, these mushrooms can produce vibrant and unique colors that cannot be replicated by synthetic dyes. So, the next time you go foraging for mushrooms, keep an eye out for these colorful varieties.