Lac is one of the world’s oldest known dyes, with records dating back to around 250 CE. This deep red colorant is obtained from the shellac resin secreted by the lac insect (Kerria lacca). Unlike regular lac powder, which requires lengthy vinegar extraction, this refined extract is highly concentrated, pre-processed, and ready to use, offering brilliant results with less effort.

Similar to cochineal in composition, lac produces softer, richer shades of red, crimson, and burgundy with excellent light and wash fastness, particularly on silk and wool. Its warm, muted depth makes it a beautiful alternative in the natural red dye palette.

The regular lac extract in the shop produces a beautiful spectrum of warm, muted tones of crimson, burgundy, and deep purples. It leans toward softer, darker shades, which are excellent for projects where a more subtle or historic color palette is desired.

The extra refined lac extract, however, has been further processed to concentrate the red pigments (laccaic acids) and remove much of the material that pushes lac toward browns and purples. As a result, this refined version:

• Produces clearer, brighter reds (less muted, more vivid)
• Requires a smaller percentage of dye (3% WOF instead of the higher ranges with regular extract)
• Is easier to use, since it dissolves quickly without the cloudiness or sediment sometimes present in standard extracts

Active dye components: laccaic acid (anthraquinone group)
CI Natural Red 25 

• Alum: bright crimson to rich burgundy
• Cream of tartar or vinegar: enhances warmer red tones
• No mordant: softer, muted shades (still fast on protein fibers)
• Iron: deep purples, smoky reds, and brownish tones
• Works particularly well on silk and wool, but also dyes cellulose with proper mordanting