Kids Love These
"I own a Hands on History Experience called Treasure Chest. We teach about 18th Century Crafts and the dyes that were used during this time period. Our school groups love our cochineal demonstrations!"
Free Shipping on Orders over $150*
Rated 4.8 out of 5 — 6 verified reviews
The Cochineal bug is found in desert locations in Arizona, New Mexico, and California to Montana, Colorado, Texas, Florida and North Carolina. They feed on the juices of the cacti plant, especially the prickly pear cacti.
Carminic acid, which occurs as 17-24% of the weight of the dry insects, can be extracted from the insect’s body and eggs. A small amount of Cream of Tartar is required to extract the dye from the dried insects.
Used by the Aztecs as early as the 10th century, Cochineal dye was the second only to silver in terms of Spanish exports from the New World. The Spanish monopoly lasted almost 300 years and ended in 1777 when a sample of both the Cochineal insect and the cactus were smuggled out of present day Mexico. Find cochineal bugs for sale at The Woolery!
This dye/additive is not intended for human/animal consumption.
Overall rating: 4.8333335 / 5 from 6 reviews.
Review topics: [].
"I own a Hands on History Experience called Treasure Chest. We teach about 18th Century Crafts and the dyes that were used during this time period. Our school groups love our cochineal demonstrations!"
"I bought the “Bugs” to be used at the Virginia Renaissance Faire to be used to show how they were used at the time to dye the color red. But because of the 2 year cancellation for the pandemic I only had 1 week notice to prepare and they didn’t arrive in time. But I will be adding them to next year’s Faire! And everyone is invited. It starts on Mother’s Day and runs for 5 weekends. The children are fascinated to see the weaving exhibit."
"as usual the service and quality is great."
"Very pleased with the quick mailing of my order. The Cochineal is perfect for showing elementary age school children what is used to make red dye. Can't wait to try a dye bath with it."
"Made a decent red on wool. I do historical re-enactment so authenticity is important to me."
"Great product! Fast delivery"