“Even though natural dyeing was heavily practiced in Sri Lanka, most of the country’s textile and craft industry has diverted to using synthetic dyes that are bad for the environment (Ranatunga, et. al., 2020). While research has been conducted on the colorfastness and dyeing potential of coconut husk (Adeel et al., 2020; Kashyap et al., 2016; Kholil et al., 2021) design possibilities of the extracted dyes was not found in the research to produce fashionable garments.  

The purpose of this study was to explore the dyeing potential and surface design possibilities of coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk fiber, a traditional dye source of Sri Lanka. A practice-based design approach was utilized for the project with weekly analysis and reflection on the collected data to move the design process forward. The research was conducted in four stages: dye experimentation, print design exploration, textile art, and exposition. 

Coconut husks were boiled in water to extract the dyes. Cellulose and silk fabrics were pre-treatment to enhance the bond between fiber and dye. The leftover dye bath was recycled to separate the pigment from the water to create a thickened dye paste that could be used to create surface prints. 

All the fabrics dyed in a pink beige color with slight hue variations. The thickened dye paste consistency worked best with screen-printing leaving clear lines around the edges of the prints. Based on the findings, a collection of artifacts was developed in the form of textile art. The process and outcomes of the study were displayed in a gallery exhibit to create awareness of the craft of natural dyeing and promote using coconut husk waste as an economical and sustainable dye option.”

— Nadeeshani Ratnayaka