Bebali Foundation has applied participatory research methods to best practices for indigo cultivation and processing since 2002.
One of the two main colors in Indonesia’s traditional textiles, indigo blue has been made from Indigofera tinctoria leaves. Historic production for local needs could be fulfilled by harvesting from the wild, but changing landscapes and increased demand require cultivation, for which Bebali Foundation offers the necessary support.
Where employing valuable agricultural land will compromise food security, Bebali Foundation introduces indigo-bearing Strobilanthes cusia into agroforestry systems, helping to maintain the viability of forested landscapes.
In all cases, growing indigo species at scale requires scaling up of dye paste processing methods. Bebali Foundation offers training and infrastructure support for this and guides traditional dyers in modifying their practices to accommodate this form of indigo.
Indigo Dye Knowledge
Bebali Foundation has applied participatory research methods to best practices for indigo cultivation and processing since 2002.
One of the two main colors in Indonesia’s traditional textiles, indigo blue has been made from Indigofera tinctoria leaves. Historic production for local needs could be fulfilled by harvesting from the wild, but changing landscapes and increased demand require cultivation, for which Bebali Foundation offers the necessary support.
Where employing valuable agricultural land will compromise food security, Bebali Foundation introduces indigo-bearing Strobilanthes cusia into agroforestry systems, helping to maintain the viability of forested landscapes.
In all cases, growing indigo species at scale requires scaling up of dye paste processing methods. Bebali Foundation offers training and infrastructure support for this and guides traditional dyers in modifying their practices to accommodate this form of indigo.