Nathalie Leturcq

Textile dyer

©Joias Janaina

©Edgar Magdalena

Eco-printing and the art of natural dye

Nathalie specialises in natural dyes for textiles to make clothing and accessories
She blends traditional techniques with modern innovations such as 3D printing
Her work focuses on environmental responsibility, education and reviving historical dyeing methods

Originally from Belgium but now based in Tenerife, Nathalie Leturcq turned to dedicate herself to the craft of natural dyeing, with techniques on fibres such as silk and cotton. From her home workshop, both a creative space and an educational hub, Nathalie creates fashion garments, accessories and tailor-made stationery for special occasions. She is inspired by the Canary Islands' rich history of natural dye production, including cochineal, orchil and woad. Her designs combine traditional recipes with ecologically minded practices, ensuring her work appeals to contemporary audiences while respecting environmental concerns. As a committed advocate for natural dyeing, she passes on the knowledge of this endangered craft, seeking to inspire a new generation of artisans while honouring the past.

Where

Interview

©Joias Janaina

©Joias Janaina

Why did you choose natural dyes?: In 2012, while creating garments for friends, I decided to specialise in textile decoration with natural dyes. My journey deepened as I researched historical Canary Island dyeing techniques. As someone who has suffered severe allergies to synthetic dyes, natural dyeing became a necessity and a passion for me. It allows me to create beautiful textiles while safeguarding my health and the environment.
How did your journey begin?: I started in 2014, when I discovered the possibilities of using wine-waste but also tartrate salts and water-soluble tannins from winemaking to extract pigments. This led to a collaboration with Bodegas Monje in Tenerife, where we launched the Vinotinte brand.
How is your craft connected to the Canary Islands?: Ever since Roman times the Canary Islands have been rich in natural dye materials, such as the shells of the murex family (purple dye), orchil, weld and woad (blue dye), and finally, from 1825, cochineal. The islands also produced cloth and silk. My work aims to revive this heritage by integrating the islands' past into modern eco-friendly practices.
How would you define the artistic or artisanal work you do?: My work primarily involves adapting historic recipes, many of which used traditional mordants containing heavy metals that are now banned by environmental and health regulations. I create reimagined designs that meet modern ecological standards while appealing to a contemporary audience.

Nathalie Leturcq is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2014 and she started teaching in 2019