Dye Fabric with Earth Pigments: Mud, clay, and soil! - WoolstockEAST

Instructor:  Josephine Clarke

Workshop times:  Part 1 - Thursday, August 11th 12pm to 3pm

                                     Part 2 - Friday, August 12th 12pm to 4pm

Accessibility note: This class involves the use of blenders, so there will be loud noise. It also involves manual dexterity for using paintbrushes and cutting tools. The instructor is happy to help with that part for anyone facing mobility/dexterity challenges, just contact us ahead of time to chat :)   In this course, participants will have the opportunity to connect with nature and create a hand-dyed bandana with a unique design in rich, earthy colours. We will be using soil sourced from the Bay of Fundy as well as clays and pigments from around the world.

On the first day, after Clarke shares a brief history of the craft, participants will make soymilk to prepare the pre-treatments for the cloth. The students will be taught some basic surface design geometry, and have a chance to practice by formulating different designs in pencil with worksheets and guidance from the instructor. Then, participants will prepare their fabric by marking grids on the bandanas with heat erasable fabric pens.

On the second day, the designs will be finalized. Participants will have a choice of paintbrushes to hand-apply the earth pigments, or lino rubber and tools to make your own stamp to the cloth in their chosen design.

Please note:  Participants will take home their treated fabrics after the course. Protein-fixed earth pigments need to set and cure for at least one week before they can be washed. If this is not possible for any students, they should discuss options with the instructor.

Experience is an asset but not required.  That being said, you will need patience! I don't skimp on process or theory, because knowing the boring things is just as important as knowing the fun things. We have to respect the craft!

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Can't make it to WoolstockEAST? Sisterhood Fibres has lots of other workshop opportunities throughout the year. Take a look at our Events Page for all upcoming workshops and events!