Instructor: Kristine Vejar

Natural dyeing is the act of drawing color from a natural material, and applying that color to cloth. Dye can be found in roots, leaves, bark, and even an insect, cochineal. Until 1857, when color was synthesized, natural dyes were the only type of dye available. Natural dyeing is similar to cooking. By understanding the ingredients, and learning a few techniques of working with them, there are hundreds, maybe even thousands of ways to create color and colors to create. The possibilities make it an endlessly inspiring process to study and practice.

In this three part class, you will learn all of the steps to create long-lasting color upon natural fibers using natural dyes. In class, we will use a form of natural dyes called natural dyeing extracts - these are fine, concentrated powders derived from plants. They are easy to use, can create a wide range of color, are compact, making them easy to store. And are one of the more predictable forms of natural dyes, making it easier to reproduce colors.

You will learn the following:
+ the vocabulary associated with natural dyeing
+ helpful tools to have during the natural dyeing process
+ the difference between fiber types
+ how these differences play a role in the natural dyeing process
+ how to create lightfast and colorfast naturally-dyed fabric and yarn
+ to prepare the fabric for dyeing: labeling, scouring, and mordanting
+ which natural dyes create the most long-lasting color
+ the intricacies of the different dyes
+ the spectrum of color created using natural dyeing extracts
+ to use natural dyeing extracts
+ to plan for projects
+ to understand your results
+ washing and caring for your naturally-dyed goods

In class, we will focus on two projects from The Modern Natural Dyer. In order to explore animal-based fibers, you will complete the dyeing for the Northwoods Hat. (There is the option of dyeing a silk scarf instead if you do not know how to knit, or would prefer to dye a silk scarf instead of yarn). To understand how to work with plant-based fibers, you will complete Sock Hop.

Once you have completed this class, you will have a great understanding of how to dye nearly any natural fiber using natural dyes. And you will be well on your way to creating a wide spectrum of naturally-dyed color on a wide variety of goods!

Materials Included in Class 
+ Scour, mordant, dye, tools to dye, gloves.

**Depending on the weather, the class may take place outdoors. Please dress accordingly. And wear clothing which can get dirty.

If you have purchased The Modern Natural Dyer Work-Along: Phase One Kit, you get 15% off this class. Enter 101Phase1Kit at checkout to receive your discount.

3 classes / 2 hours each

Clas Size:  12 students max.

Date: Coming Soon!
Time: 3-5pm

$225.00