At Rowanricht, every practice we share — whether it's foraging plants, dyeing with natural colour, or weaving with wild fibres — is rooted in reverence for the land and care for those who walk this path. Working with natural materials is beautiful, powerful, and deeply connecting — but it also comes with responsibilities. This page sets out some simple guidance to help you approach these practices safely, respectfully, and with the awareness that they are living traditions connected to both the earth and our ancestors.
Foraging & Wild Plants
- Always be 100% certain of your plant identification before harvesting. Many plants look similar, and misidentification can cause illness or harm.
- Take only what you need, and never more than one percent of what's growing in an area — so the plant community continues to thrive.
- Forage away from polluted sites (roadsides, industrial land, sprayed fields).
- Be mindful of protected species — some plants are legally protected and must never be harvested.
- When in doubt, leave it. Reverence is also expressed in restraint.
Natural Dyeing & Herbal Use
- Wear gloves and work in a ventilated space when preparing dyes, especially when heating them.
- Some plants and mordants can be skin irritants or toxic if mishandled — research before you begin.
- Keep all dyeing equipment separate from your cooking equipment.
- If experimenting with herbal teas or remedies, always consult reliable sources, and check for allergies or contraindications with medication.
Fibre Arts & Tools
- When working with sharp tools (spindles, needles, shears), handle with care and keep them away from children unless supervised.
- Use caution with hot water and soap in felting projects.
- Respect the animals that fibre comes from — source wool responsibly from ethical farms where possible, or use what is locally available to you.
Environmental Care
- Everything we take from the land is a gift. Wherever possible, choose foraged, reclaimed, or locally sourced materials.
- Dispose of dye baths responsibly — never pour mordants or strong plant brews into waterways.
- Give thanks. Leave offerings if it feels right. And always leave the land better than you found it.
Your Responsibility
All practices, workshops, and guides shared by Rowanricht are offered for educational purposes. By engaging in them, you accept full responsibility for your own safety and wellbeing. These traditions are meant to nourish — not to cause harm. Please take the time to learn slowly, listen to your intuition, and seek expert advice where needed.
Honour yourself. Honour the land. Honour the lineage.
That's how these practices stay alive and safe for the generations to come.