Although there are many weavers throughout Latin America, the Zapotec weavers of Mexico are famous for their beautiful colored textiles.  Their traditional hues were derived from plant materials indigenous to their area.  With time plants such as indigo were introduced, and finally the analine dyes of the late 19th century. 

Here you'll see the primary dyes used by weavers who seek to create the more natural color schemes of their ancestors.  The blue is from indigo.  The basket of green lichens produce both green and yellow yarns, and sometimes orange.  On the right is dried cochineal, the famous red dye made of a tiny insect that inhabits prickly pear cactus.  It is dried as preservation, then ground into powder and mixed with water to produce a vivid red color.

No matter where you live, indigenous peoples have found plants for natural dyes and paints to color their world.  Discover what Native Americans used in your area and plants that the pioneers brought from  Europe.  For the needle worker of any kind, experimenting with natural dyes is a beautiful way to begin with the arts of sustainability.