The use of natural pigments of organic origin is an inherent element of the cultural identity of the Mediterranean basin and neighboring regions. However, from the mid-19th century onwards, synthetic compounds gradually overshadow traditional methods of dyeing and painting, often replacing incompatible materials with each other, leading to products of questionable quality.

In this context, the need for reliable reproduction of ancient methods of preparing and using natural pigments becomes apparent, aimed at facilitating the preservation of material cultural heritage as well as artistic or craft pursuits.

This study is based on a series of interdependent activities, namely:

• careful recording and coding of ancient recipes,
• experimental revival of the most suitable traditional procedures, in a way that allows easy and repeatable reproduction,
• optimization of dyeing or painting methods with natural organic pigments through investigating the relationships between physicochemical conditions and tangible results, regarding the final hue, saturation, brightness, as well as durability and stability,
• formulation of protocols for standardizing the recipes.