Fundamentals of Textile Design 3(2+1)

Lesson 26: Synthetic Dyes

Substantive or Direct Dyes

Substantive or direct dyes are anionic dyes that constitute the largest group as well as the most commercially used group of dyestuffs. Direct dyes are soluble in water and are applied primarily to cellulosic fibers. These colors are easy to apply and are considered the most inexpensive dyes on the market. They require no special equipment for application.

Direct dyestuffs exhibit relatively good color fastness to sunlight but colorfastness to washing may be poor. The problem of poor wash fastness of this class of dyes can be solved by after treatments.