The Science Behind Our Colours
At Oxford Biocolours, we make bright, long-lasting colours using plants — not petroleum.
Our dyes are colourfast, which means they don’t fade in sunlight or run in the wash. They perform just as well as standard synthetic dyes, but without the pollution.
We do this by using clever science to gently change plant dyes so they stick directly to wool. Most natural dyes need extra chemicals (called mordants) to make the colour stay. Ours don’t.
Because the dye bonds straight to the fibre, we can mix colours easily, use less water and energy, and avoid harsh chemicals in the process.
Our dyeing method was developed in the lab and brought to life with our Scottish dye house partner. We use modern, water-saving machines to create beautiful yarns with a much smaller environmental footprint.
And we’re not stopping here — we’re always experimenting. New colours are on the way.
Why it Matters
Most yarn is dyed with synthetic colours made from fossil fuels. They work well — but they come with a heavy environmental cost.
Traditional dyeing uses lots of water, energy, and chemicals. Those chemicals often end up in rivers and ecosystems, long after the yarn leaves the factory.
By using plant-based dyes that bond directly to wool, we can make yarn that’s kinder to the planet without compromising on colour, quality, or durability.
That means:
- Less water used
- Fewer chemicals released
- Long-lasting colours you can knit, wear, and wash with confidence
We believe beautiful yarn shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. This is our way of changing how colour is made — one hank at a time.