Mordant the fabric according to the directions on the alum. This will generally involve filling the mordant pot with warm water, mixing in a certain amount of alum and submerging the garment(s) for a specific length of time (e.g., one hour). Tip: If you plan to create a pattern in your clothing, you can apply rubber bands to the fabric before mordanting, in much the same way you would when tie dyeing clothing.

Fill large pot with water and add in turmeric. Set it on the stove and heat to simmering. Allow the “turmeric tea” to simmer for approximately 30 to 60 minutes.

After turmeric tea seems ready, wring out the mordanted fabric and place it into the pot. Allow the fabric to soak on low heat for at least 15 to 30 minutes.

Take the fabric out of the pot, squeeze to drain and carefully remove any rubber bands.

Transfer fabric to your (empty) washing machine and choose the spin and drain cycle. When the cycle is finished, move the fabric to a drying rack so it can air dry.