Explore natural dyeing techniques through our online workshop where you will have the opportunity to learn how to use plants and food to dye garments.

Supported by Gucci

An introductory workshop into the magical world of natural colour using flowers and food waste with interdisciplinary artist Amber Joy. 

What you can expect to learn:

• A contemporary dye technique known as bundle dyeing that requires steam to transfer plants on to the fabric

• How to pick and prepare fabric with mordants and binders

• A basic knowledge of traditional dye plants and the colours they yield

• How to achieve tie dye designs and patterns

• A list of resources and suppliers to leave fully equipped to continue experimenting at home

What to do prior to the workshop:

PREP YOUR FABRIC

To get the best results you will need to prepare your fabric for natural dyeing. Please do this a few days prior or the night before. PS. Older clothes work best for dyeing! 

1. Look around your closet and pick a white natural fabric like cotton, linen or silk. NO synthetic fibres.

2. Put your natural fabric through a hot wash to strip off any waxes or oils.

3. When the fabric is clean, grab a bowl or bucket and fill it with enough water to cover the fabric.

4. Pour a full carton of soy milk into the water and stir.

5. Let the fabric sit in the soy milk solution overnight.

6. Air dry in the morning.

7. Do not wash! Let it cure up till the day of the workshop.

COLLECT DYE MATERIALS

You don't have to go very far to find things that yield natural colour. Have a forage in your kitchen, garden or local park for any of these items. Gather as much as possible so you can have more to experiment with!

KITCHEN

Red onion skins

Yellow onion skins

Dried black beans

Turmeric powder

Black berries

Pomegranate skins

Black tea 

Hibiscus flower

GARDEN

Hibiscus

Buddleja 

Fuchsia

Coreopsis

Cosmos

Marigolds

Sunflowers 

Hollyhock

Black Knight Scabiosa

On the day of the workshop:

Please have the following ready...

• Soy milk treated fabric

• Collected dye materials

• A pot

• Hob/Stovetop

• Sieve strainer

• Tongs

• Protective covering ie. a towel

• String or rubber bands

• Scissors

• Vinegar or lemon

• Baking Soda