Page 122 - 2025南投藝事南投學論文集

Colors Born from Soil: A Preliminary Study on the Potential of Nantou’s
Mineral Resources as Natural Dyes

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of using mineral soils from Nantou County as
natural dyes, seeking to establish an initial framework for soil-based dyeing from both
material science and craft perspectives. Nantou’s diverse geology produces soils rich
in iron, aluminum, and other minerals, giving rise to distinctive local hues that serve as

valuable resources for developing regional dye materials. Unlike conventional studies
that focus mainly on plant-based sources, this research highlights “soil” as an
alternative, aligning with current discourses on sustainability and local revitalization.

Soil samples were collected from shallow layers at multiple sites, then purified
through sieving, sedimentation, and drying. Dyeing tests were conducted on cotton,
linen, and silk, recording the adhesion and color performance of mineral pigments.
Results revealed a palette of earthy tones—reddish-brown, ochre, gray, and muted
brown—closely linked to Nantou’s landscapes and cultural memory.

The findings confirm the potential of soil-based dyes as stable, environmentally
conscious colorants. By translating land-derived colors onto textiles, the study
reconsiders the relationship between people and place, offering a foundation for future

applications in craft education, artistic creation, and cultural product design. Ultimately,
“the colors of the land” emerge as both a cultural medium and a pathway toward
sustainable design.

Keywords: Mineral Dyeing, Soil-based Pigments, Nantou Geology, Dyeing and
Weaving Crafts

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