Natural Dyeing Textiles (ASC178)

Join us for an experimental course introducing you to dyeing fabrics and papers using foodstuffs, plants and more.

What will you learn on this course?

You will learn the basics of natural dyeing through demonstrations, handouts and experimenting including:

•    How to choose and prepare your fabrics 
•    Equipment needed, and how to set up your own work station at home should you wish to develop ideas
•    What mordants and modifiers are and how to use them to create reactions and colour changes
•    How to use a dirty pot
•    How to prepare, recognise and use a variety of plants, vegetables and more to extract pigments for dyeing
•    Aftercare of your fabric 
•    How to make inks using natural ingredients
•    Ideas for how to embellish your favourite samples with surface decoration using stitch.

Full guidance, demonstrations and handouts will be provided throughout the course.

You will be shown work by other textile artists using natural dyeing, eco dyeing and more with a list of recommended reading material should you wish to develop the techniques further.

At the end of the course you will have learnt a range of basic techniques, have your own development ideas and a bundle of beautiful samples to use as reference or in other projects.

Who is this course for?

This new short course is designed for beginners but is also suitable for anyone with some fabric dyeing. Full instruction and guidance are given. Those with previous textile experience will be able to develop their skills and learn new techniques.

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. The room is wheelchair accessible. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

Do you need to bring anything?

You are welcome to bring in any fabrics to use in your work, though we also have plenty to start you off. Please wear old clothes to work in. You must bring a sketchbook or notebook to record your experiments and findings.

Are there any additional costs?

Materials required for this course are included in the course fee, optional additional materials can be brought with you.

Who teaches this course?

Helen Lane