This class will work with 3 natural indigo vats of varying strengths. Attention to mixing vats with a focus on the final color value will be stressed. Thus we will have one for pale, medium and dark colored yarns. Correct measuring of dye material to the volume water in the vat will be emphasized to ensure successful indigo dyeing. Students will assist in making the vats and running samples on natural colored yarn and as well as  pre-dyed natural dyed yarns to mix for greens and blues and purple shades. Finally, correct finishing of indigo dyed yarns will be demonstrated to minimize crocking. Students will receive a set of 96 samples that we dye in class.

Shibori is a collection of ancient Chinese/Japanese resist dyeing techniques on fabric often dyed with indigo. This class will cover the 3 categories of techniques of resist:  Stitching, folding and clamping and pole wrapping.  We will spend each week on a different technique and a final open studio session to work on final projects. We will work on cotton and silk and several indigo vats of varying strengths. Shibori resists offer exploration full of mystery and surprise. Something magical happens in the process.

Students Bring:

pre-scoured fabric or scarves to sample techniques. A good source for both fabric and scarves is Dharma Trading.  https://www.dharmatrading.com. 

No synthetics.

Please do not bring clothing to dye. Our vats are not large enough to accommodate pieces of clothing.

Instuctor will also have some organic cotton bandanas for purchase.

Note: No class on November 27