A dyer uses their skills to create the fabric colours and patterns that are required by the costume designer.

The RSC explains how its dye department does much more than dying:

Before any costume or pair of shoes or boots goes on stage they may be ‘broken down’ by the dye department. Breaking down is a process of distressing a costume to give it a worn and authentic look. Jacket sleeves can be tied up with string and sprayed with water and left overnight to get authentic creases. Pockets are made to realistically sag by filling with paper or stones. Costumes can be rubbed with sandpaper or soap to make the garment look worn or greasy. The dye department also regularly cover boots and shoes with specially made ‘mud’.