Gallnut Extract – Natural Tannin for Mordanting

from £2.95

Gallnut extract is a natural, colourless tannin derived from the Aleppo oak (Quercus infectoria). Traditionally used in natural dyeing, it is especially valuable as a pre-mordant on cellulose fibres such as cotton, linen, and hemp.

Rich in gallic acid, this dyer’s-grade extract enhances the bonding of alum to cellulose, improving both lightfastness and washfastness in naturally dyed textiles.

Because gallnut is a clear (gallic) tannin, it imparts little to no colour – at most a very pale yellow to light brown tone, depending on the amount used. This makes it the perfect choice when working with lighter or bright dye colours where you don’t want a tannin base to alter the shade.

Details:

  • Source: Aleppo oak (Quercus infectoria)

  • Role: Pre-mordant tannin for cellulose fibres

  • Colour: Nearly colourless (pale yellow–light brown at higher use rates)

  • Recommended usage: 10–15% WOF (weight of fibre)

  • Benefits: Increases lightfastness & washfastness of plant dyes

  • Fibres: Best for cotton, linen, hemp and other cellulose textiles

📦 Available Size:

  • 20g resealable pouch

A trusted, traditional tannin – gallnut is an essential tool for achieving bright, lasting colours on plant-based fibres.

Size:

Gallnut extract is a natural, colourless tannin derived from the Aleppo oak (Quercus infectoria). Traditionally used in natural dyeing, it is especially valuable as a pre-mordant on cellulose fibres such as cotton, linen, and hemp.

Rich in gallic acid, this dyer’s-grade extract enhances the bonding of alum to cellulose, improving both lightfastness and washfastness in naturally dyed textiles.

Because gallnut is a clear (gallic) tannin, it imparts little to no colour – at most a very pale yellow to light brown tone, depending on the amount used. This makes it the perfect choice when working with lighter or bright dye colours where you don’t want a tannin base to alter the shade.

Details:

  • Source: Aleppo oak (Quercus infectoria)

  • Role: Pre-mordant tannin for cellulose fibres

  • Colour: Nearly colourless (pale yellow–light brown at higher use rates)

  • Recommended usage: 10–15% WOF (weight of fibre)

  • Benefits: Increases lightfastness & washfastness of plant dyes

  • Fibres: Best for cotton, linen, hemp and other cellulose textiles

📦 Available Size:

  • 20g resealable pouch

A trusted, traditional tannin – gallnut is an essential tool for achieving bright, lasting colours on plant-based fibres.