Some History
Procion MX dyes were created in Britain in 1954 by Imperial Chemical Industries Limited (ICI); they became available commercially in 1956. ICI discovered that a dye molecule containing certain chemical reactive groups could react with cellulose fibres under alkaline conditions. They determined that the dye molecule reacted with the fibre molecule and became part of the fibre rather than an independent substance trapped within it, or attached to it.
The formulas that I use now were taken from ICI instructional manuals and allow for the most efficient use of Procion MX dyes. These formulas were shared by Elin Noble, former technical manager at PRO Chemical & Dye, and Diane Franklin.
Pure Dyes
There are 14 pure dyes. These can be combined together in varying amounts to create a wonderful array of all colours imaginable.
Dye companies also sell mixed dyes, but it is a much better idea, not to say more economical, to buy only the pure dyes and mix your own colours.
