If you have ever thought about or attempted to naturally dyes fabrics and yarns but have been overwhelmed by all the information out there or how to even Start, this is the class for you! Gain the knowledge to start using natural dyes to gain long lasting color and confidence to begin experimenting on your own.
You'll receive a download of the entire video series. Which is 3+ hours of HD film of process, explanation and demonstration, organized into 14 video sessions. The class is structured so you can take as a week intensive or throughout the month, or longer! Each session requires about an hour or two a day. Take it at your own speed. The video quality isn't great :-) but the information is good, thorough, and extremely organized.
You also get access to a hidden blog page that hosts the video, instructions and extra hints and tips. PLUS, if needed, a 30 minute Zoom meet up with me for any questions you might have afterward.
The syllabus and video sections give you a recommended timeline for each. So you can choose if you want to get to it right away or take your time. Some techniques will also work in various ways to various degrees. I take you through all you will need to get started working with natural dyes successfully. If you've taken my in person Dyeing with Nature or World of Natural Dyes class you may notice similarities, but I do recommend this series if you have a little knowledge of the process and could use some extra help. The nice thing about this virtual class structure is that it allows for more time for crucial info to be passed on for you to dye at home more successfully. What I haven't included is any shibori technique (but that is next up for filming!) or the history side of dyes because there isn't any down time while we watch our pots in person. Though there is a list of suggested reading for you to dive into that side of things.
When you grab these supplies, you will be sent a pdf of the class syllabus, so it is possible to create without booking the virtual workshop. But much of the info may be confusing without the visual help, and there is a ton of extra information when you watch the class
For the class you will need a bunch of materials and equipment. But I have listed "necessary" with no marking, "recommended" with a star and "optional" with two stars. Please note that some "on budget" dye stuff options are not lightfast and have a very low saturation of color, but it can be a good place to start! You can always grab better dyes once you have a better grasp on the process.
If you click "Micro Kit" option you get everything on the list below under "KITS" to dye about 9oz of fiber.
If you click "Mega Kit" you get the same list but larger quantities to dye about 3 pounds of fiber.
1oz =1 cotton bandana 1lb = 1 yard medium weight fabric
Dyeing 3oz or 1lb of fiber per dye video section assumed for kts.
You can also choose to pick what you you need/want on your own using the links on this list. Watching the Introduction and equipment videos First can also be helpful in deciding. Choosing specific items and pair them with what you already have at home or can pick up locally,
I fully support shopping small businesses in your neck of the woods to lift your community. If you would like to collect and forage for your supplies, I suggest at least getting the mordants and soybeans at least.
Dyes (included in kit)
(substitution in lesser strength: turmeric, onion skins)
Sappanwood (Brazilwood) Dye or Cochineal or Lac
(substitution in MUCH lesser strength: red cabbage)
Myrobalan Dye or Acorns, Black Walnut, Sumac, Oak, Pomegranate skin, etc.
(substitution in lesser strength: black tea)
Modifiers and Assists (included in kit)
*Calcium carbonate: chalk (substitution in lesser strength: TUMS)
*Potassium bitartrate: cream o’ tartar
Sodium carbonate: soda ash (substitution in lesser strength: baking soda)
Citric Acid (substitutions in lesser strength: vinegar, citrus zest)
Ferrous Sulfate (substitutions: rusty objects or iron supplement pills)
Fabric Preparation (included in kit)
Calcium Acetate (or actual Alum Acetate, or Sodium Acetate)
Suggested Supplies (optional, additional purchase)
*Synthrapol Washing Agent
*Thickening Agent (gum arabic, guar gum, etc)
Equipment (needed)
*Small Non-Reactive Pot
Medium-Large Non-Reactive Pot
1-*2 Burners
Strainer Etc
Filter ie. mesh, tshirt, stockings, muslin
Blender (food use one is fine)
Spoon or Tongs
Measuring Spoons
Pail or Bucket
Bin or Dish
*Scale for grams/ounces
Mask
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
- Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.