PRODUCTION OF TIE AND DYE FROM ONIONS PEELS (ALLIUM CEPA) USING BULLSEYE METHOD FOR INCOME GENERATION

ABSTRACT The textile industry's reliance on synthetic dyes poses significant environmental and health risks due to toxic chemical runoff and waste. In response, this study explores the potential of natural dyes as a sustainable alternative, focusing on the utilization of agricultural waste. This project investigated the production of tie and dye from onion peels (Allium cepa), using techniques method for income generation. Natural dye was extracted by boiling 1.5 kg of onion peels in water to create a concentrated extract. A 0.6 kg white 100% cotton fabric was prepared using a bullseye tie-dye technique with rope resist. The dye bath was standardized with alum (as a mordant) and salt to enhance color fixation. The fabric was immersed and dyed for 30-35 minutes, then rinsed and dried. The dyed fabric was subsequently used to construct finished articles, including an apron. The aesthetic qualities of the finished apron were evaluated by ten judges from the Department of Home and Rural Economics using a 5-point hedonic scale. Results indicated a strong positive reception, with mean scores of 1.3 for suitability of material and 1.2 for finishing (rated excellent), and scores of 1.7, 1.5, and 1.6 for choice of design, pattern, and unit assembling respectively (rated very good). The study concludes that onion peels are an effective and sustainable source of natural dye for textile application. The high-quality evaluation of the finished product demonstrates the commercial viability of this technique. This work provides a practical "waste-to-wealth" model that aligns with circular economy principles, offering a viable pathway for reducing production costs, minimizing environmental pollution, and fostering entrepreneurship. It is recommended that this method be adopted by artisans, students, and entrepreneurs, with support from educational and governmental institutions through training and micro-credit facilities to promote sustainable economic empowerment.