RUST DYING

Rust Impressions: A playful experiment of decay and transformation

These examples demonstrate the beauty of rust and the marks it leaves behind. Each piece is created through the slow, natural process of rust dyeing where metal, and fibre react to create one of a kind prints and colourations.

Using reclaimed materials like railway sleepers, old nails, discarded construction steel, and forgotten tools, the metal tell its story on the fabric. As the rust transfers onto the fibres it forms rich patterns and earthy tones of warm coppers, deep browns to smoky greys, often with beautiful surprises.

Every print captures a moment of transformation, turning industrial remnants into soft, tactile works that celebrate decay, renewal, and the quiet beauty in imperfection.

RUST DYING

Fibres are soaked in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and rainwater, on both cellulose fibres (cotton and linen) and protein fibres (wool).

Left for several days, the iron oxide from the rust transfers to the fibre, leaving behind deep, textured impressions where the metal touches the material. The degree of saturation influences how much the colour bleeds, creating soft gradients or strong contrasts. Like the images above. Cotton/ Hemp fabric and woven wool pieces.

Applying heat accelerates the process and expands the colour range. From warm copper and sienna tones to deep greys and near black impressions. It also enhances definition, producing sharper, more detailed print. Images below are, cotton woven shirt and cotton jersey fabrics.

  • Dancer

    Dancer

    Dancer

    $80.00 AUD
    $80.00 AUD