Chlorophyll was isolated from natural raw materials (nettle, spinach and alfalfa) by extn. with 80% aq. Me2CO in the presence of Mg-5(CO3)(4)(OH)(2)center dot 5H(2)O at 50 degrees C and under intensive stirring. Isolated chlorophyll was reacted with 30% aq. CuSO4 to obtain chlorophyll-Cu complex and then with aq. soln. of NaOH to chlorophyll-Cu/Na complex. The complexes were tested for dyeing tempera binder and oil paints. The chlorophyll dyes improved the properties of painted coatings. The best properties were obtained for chlorophyllin-Cu/Na complex dye.