Table of Contents
What is Sanxia Indigo Dyeing?
 | Sanxia Indigo Dyeing is a traditional plant dyeing technique originating from Sanxia District, New Taipei City, Taiwan. It uses indigo grass (Dajing) as dye, and through natural fermentation and dyeing, it produces a deep and quiet indigo color. This technique was popular during the Qing Dynasty and was once an important economic industry in Sanxia. |
Dye source: Strobilanthes cusia
- Scientific name: Strobilanthes cusia (Indigo)
- Features: The leaves can produce indigo pigment after being crushed, fermented, and oxidized.
| Sanxia has become one of the major indigo dyeing centers in Taiwan because of its climate and water quality suitable for growing Strobilanthes cusia. |  |
Production process overview
Harvesting the safflower → Drying or crushing
- Indigo making (fermentation) → *Fermenting in lime water to produce indigo mud
- Building a dyeing vat → *Adding indigo mud and alkaline liquid (such as lime water)
- Dyeing → *Repeatedly soaking and oxidizing the fabric, the blue color deepens layer by layer
Pattern making → *Combining tie-dyeing, batik, and clip-dyeing techniques to create patterns.|
The cultural significance of indigo dyeing
- Natural and environmentally friendly: natural plants and non-toxic materials are used throughout the process, which is friendly to the environment.
- The beauty of handmade: each piece is unique and embodies the spirit of craftsmanship.
- Local recognition: Sanxia indigo dyeing is not only a skill, but also a symbol of local culture and history.
Transformation and innovation: nowadays, it also combines fashion, design and tourism, such as indigo dyeing experience workshops, cultural and creative products, etc.
Famous Sanxia Indigo Dyeing Locations
Sanxia Indigo Dyeing Exhibition Center (Sanxia District, New Taipei City) Provides indigo dyeing experience, guided tours, exhibitions and handicraft sales.
Sanjiaoyong Indigo Dyeing Workshop, Sanxia Indigo Dyeing Society and other private organizations
Dedicated to preserving and promoting indigo dyeing culture https://youtu.be/QS5Q7puF1jQ?si=3dqER0ANqQ02dbnC