Why use "Iron Water" in Eco-printing?

The big question is “what is iron water”? It’s a ferrous sulfate solution made with water and the dietary supplement called “iron”.

Ferrous Sulfate tablets and tablets dissolved in water

The ferrous sulfate tablets are on the vitamin and dietary supplements aisle at the drugstore.

The pint jar is water with two dissolved tablets. It needs to be shaken before you use it because the ferrous sulfate settles to the bottom. The fewer tablets you use, the lighter the impact on the plants.

I dipped the leaves in the ferrous sulfate and water. Then I steamed the papers and leaves as usual.

Here’s my supply list: https://carolannwebster.com/supplies-tools

Examples of eco-prints with and without ferrous sulfate:

If you want a browner, more aged looking eco-print, dipping the leaves in a ferrous sulfate solution will give you that look.

For a cleaner look, steam your leaves without a color modifier like ferrous sulfate.

If you’ve used this or other color modifiers, I would love to know your experience. Please leave a comment below.