<![CDATA[The textile coloring process still contributes to environmental problems because synthetic dyes may produce wastewater containing persistent chemical compounds. This study aims to explore the extraction of rubber fig ornamental plant leaves (Ficus elastica) as a natural dye for cotton fabric and to examine the effect of alum, salt, and soda ash as fixation agents. This research used an experimental descriptive approach. Fresh leaves were extracted using water, and the dye solution was applied to prima cotton fabric through pre-mordanting, meta-mordanting, and post-mordanting treatments. The results showed that Ficus elastica leaf extract produced different color characteristics depending on the fixation agent and mordanting method. Alum tended to produce soft purple and pinkish tones, soda ash produced stronger brown, orange, and dark gold tones, while salt produced paler cream to grey-green tones. After simple washing, the colors generally remained visible, although the intensity varied. These findings indicate that Ficus elastica leaves have potential as an alternative natural textile dye, especially for learning textile practices and supporting eco-fashion development based on local natural resources.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
