Also known as agar, agar-agar, kanten (Japanese).

Description
Agar is a jelly-like substance made up of polysaccharides extracted from red algae. Long valued in food preparation and microbiology, it also has a place in the dyer’s studio as a natural thickener. Agar can be used to prepare print pastes, paints, or controlled applications of natural dyes and mordants.

Historical Note
The use of agar as a gelling agent dates back centuries in East Asia, where it was traditionally used in desserts and medicinal preparations. Its adoption in textile work is more recent, but it quickly became valued as a renewable, plant-based alternative to animal-derived thickeners such as gelatine.

Applications in Dyeing

• Thickens print pastes for block printing or screen printing.
• Can be used with dye extracts, mordants, or citric acid.
• Provides a smooth, even texture ideal for controlled application.

Source
Extracted from red algae, a renewable marine resource.