Disclosed are various embodiments for dyeing a material using a dyed nanocellulose dispersion, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for water in dyeing materials, such as fabrics and textiles. A dyed nanocellulose dispersion or gel may be prepared from wood pulp fibers using a homogenizer and a dye, wherein the dyed nanocellulose dispersion comprises nanosized cellulose fibrils. The dyed nanocellulose gel may comprise an approximate concentration of 0.5% to 6%. The dyed nanocellulose dispersion may be applied to a material, such as a fabric or textile material. The fabric or textile material can be dried resulting in a dyed material