(directions for use below)
If you're looking for a way to make a quick and easy reduction vat - this is it!  Open the pack and just add water.
 
A blend of both natural indigo and synthetic indigo, combining the best of both. The reduction additives have incorporate allow you to start dyeing right away with a minimum of fuss.
 
Japanese import.
 
Currently sold in 10g packets. Also available in larger sizes through special order. Please email for more information.
 
Directions for Use
You’ll need
▸a bucket to hold at least 3 liters (3 quarts) of liquid
▸10g Instant Indigo
▸2 liters (2 quarts) warm water
▸rubber gloves
▸face mask
 
Gently add 10g of Instant Indigo to the bottom of your bucket. This may generate a bit of indigo dust, so please be careful and wear a mask.
 
Gradually introduce one liter (1 quart of warm water (30ºC, 90ºF), stirring gently for around three minutes while making sure to scrape the bottom to pick up any sludge that may have formed.  As you do so, dark bubbles may appear on the surface – these are called aibana, or indigo blossom. 
 
Once all trace of powder has been dissolved, incorporate an additional one liter (1 quart) of warm water and stir gently.
 
You are now ready to start dyeing but before introducing your fiber to the vat, take a moment to push the indigo bubbles, aibana, out of the way. If these bubbles adhere to your fiber on the way in or out of the vat, they may cause spots or uneven dyeing.
 
The vat you’ve prepared above may be a bit concentrated or intense for your needs. Indigo becomes darker with more dips, and the more dips you make to achieve a certain shade, the better quality the ultimate finished piece will be. It’s generally a better idea to err on the side of a slightly weaker vat and have to dip an extra time or two, than it is to go for your desired shade in just one dip.
 
Indigo reduction vats are very alkaline. This doesn’t generally bother cellulose fibers but it can harm proteins (including your hands – always wear gloves!).
 
Once you have finished your dips and the indigo has fully oxidized, it’s a good practice to neutralize the alkalinity with a common acid, such as vinegar.
 
To do this, fill a bowl with one liter (1 quart) of cold water. Add a splash of vinegar from your kitchen, stir, and introduce your still-wet project. Allow to soak for around ten to fifteen minutes. Rinse with tap water. If your project smells of vinegar, rinse it again until the smell is gone.
 
If you find your indigo project crocks (meaning that the pigment rubs off) then you may want to seal it with soymilk. For more information on this subject, visit John’s website at https://www.johnmarshall.to/