Designed to be eco-friendly, ethical, affordable and fun - it allows natural ingredients like coffee, tea, pomegranate, henna and even onions to be used as dyes for a high range of clothing and merchandise, branded with company logos and slogans.

Natural dyes have been impossible commercially before without using chemicals to "fix" the colours, says Cotton Roots' managing director Susan Waters, "which defeats the purpose - so people have just not done it on any scale - but now, using technique used in India we can.

"We feel our new range gives businesses both extra marketing power, accountability and above all the "wow" factor. The possibilities are endless, from real 'tea-shirts' in cafes to coffee-dyed aprons for baristas, we're already receiving some amazing ideas from companies looking for a new way to develop their brand."

Her inspiration came over a cup of tea at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Susan had stared at a fabulous clothing collection - hundreds of years old, yet still vibrant, rich and colourful. All the clothes had been dyed using traditional techniques, ancient in origin. She had seen how people throughout history had used plants, minerals, salts and sunlight to dye their clothes. Without the need for harsh chemicals they had achieved colours which were soft yet richer than modern dyes.

But it was the cup of tea that brewed the idea.   

What if she could produce real "tea" shirts - T shirts actually dyed with tea?

And what about real "tea" bags, and real "tea" towels? A new piece of sustainable manufacturing from our past brought to life for everyone?

It was a long journey but today Cotton Roots is doing just that, using Fairtrade or organic cotton for companies and charities with an ethical soul.

 Susan said: "We are all very excited - interest in the new range of naturally dyed garments, even ahead of launch, has been very enthusiastic."

She said that while clearly fun, this new concept is also incredibly serious: "We see a world where companies and charities can demonstrate their ethical values, and show commitment to communities and the planet, while enjoying hugely vibrant and lasting colours."

Prices start at around £6 per T shirt. Other naturally dyed products include aprons, bags, polo shirts, sweatshirts, formal shirts and chef wear.

For more information on the new natural dyed range from Cotton Roots, call 01908 290482 or visit www.cottonroots.co.uk

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