What is natural dye fabric? How is it made and is it available in Indian wholesale?

Natural dye fabric uses dyes derived from plant, mineral, or animal sources rather than synthetic chemicals. India has a rich tradition of natural dyeing — many GI-tagged fabrics are defined by their natural dye use.

Common Indian natural dye sources:

• Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria): Produces blue and blue-black tones — used in Bagru print, Ajrakh, and traditional block print
• Madder / Alizarin (Rubia tinctorum): Produces red and rust tones — used in Ajrakh and traditional block print
• Harda / Myrobalan: Used as a mordant and produces yellow/tan tones
• Pomegranate rind: Produces yellow-green tones
• Turmeric: Produces bright yellow (but not lightfast — fades with washing)

Wholesale availability: Natural dye fabric is a premium niche in Indian wholesale — primarily from Rajasthan (Bagru, Sanganer), Gujarat (Ajrakh), and Andhra Pradesh (Kalamkari). Not widely available through standard Surat catalog suppliers — requires sourcing from artisan clusters or specialist suppliers.