Design Of A Low-Water Natural Dyeing Protocol for Graded Tonal Series Using Onion Skin, Pomegranate Rind and Walnut Hull

Abstract

This paper examines the development of a low-water natural dyeing protocol for creating graded tonal series on 100% cotton fabric using three plant-derived materials: onion skin, pomegranate rind and walnut hull. The study is positioned within sustainable textile and fashion design, with particular attention to the use of food-related plant residues, controlled colour development and careful accounting of water used during wet processing. Rather than treating natural colourants as automatically sustainable, the research considers the practical relationship between raw-material preparation, extraction, mordanting, dye application, rinsing, colour consistency and resource use. The proposed approach uses a documented cotton substrate, measured material quantities, controlled liquor ratios and repeatable processing conditions. Fitkari (alum) is identified in the thesis as the principal mordant condition, while pomegranate rind is also considered for its tannin-rich composition and possible role in plant-based treatment. A graded tonal series is intended to be developed by varying defined process parameters such as extract concentration or dye-bath strength while keeping other conditions consistent. The paper also discusses PeelCascade as a proposed water-routing concept in which selected process streams may be directed to earlier stages. This concept requires separate testing and is not presented as a validated water-saving system. The available thesis material does not provide a complete verified dataset of colour measurements, fastness ratings or water savings; therefore, the paper presents the research framework, design direction and testing requirements without claiming unverified experimental outcomes.