The Art and Science of Indigo

Natural indigo dyeing is a craft that’s over 6,000 years old— but despite its long history, it remains remarkably alive. At 11.11 / eleven eleven, we return to this tradition not as revivalists, but as witnesses to its relevance today.

What makes indigo so special? It’s the only natural dye that doesn’t require heat—working through a cold process that’s gentler on both fibre and the planet. Unlike synthetic dyes, indigo doesn’t dissolve in water. To bond with cloth, it must first be reduced—from golden neon green in its reduced form to deep blue when oxidised.

Terracotta vat made by master crafts man Omprakash Galav.

At 11.11, we grow indigo using regenerative farming methods that help keep soil healthy and promote sustainable ecosystems. The rich blue pigment, called indigotin, develops through natural microbial fermentation, a process deeply affected by how the indigo plant is cultivated—including soil health, water, and seasonal conditions. Our regenerative farming approach produces a deeper, longer-lasting pigment that’s gentler on the earth. Learn more about our Indigo Cultivation Project.

The final colour depends on countless variables—dye concentration, number of dips, exposure time, and the intuition of the dyer. In that way, each garment becomes a unique expression of craft.

Across the world, indigo tells different stories. In Japan, it’s revered for its precise techniques like shibori and sashiko, while in West Africa, it becomes a language of symbols and identity. In India, indigo has long been woven into daily life—from dyeing the turbans of farmers in Gujarat to shaping the history of trade and resistance. At 11.11, we honour this Indian legacy by nurturing the craft in its original soil, working hand in hand with artisans who carry centuries of knowledge in their hands. For us, indigo is more than a colour—it’s a living bridge between past and present, between land and cloth, and between cultures that each find their own expression in its deep, beautiful blue.