CANCELLED: Natural Dyeing Techniques

In this 3-hour workshop we will work with locally foraged as well as cultivated plant materials to extract vibrant colors. Using non-toxic mordants on wool, silk and cotton fabrics, we will create a swatch card showcasing the range of colors from each plant. Students will leave with an instructional handout, completed swatch cards and dyed fabric yardage. All materials will be provided.

Natural dyeing techniques are documented starting in the Viking age in the Nordic regions and continued to be an important part of the Nordic countries. These natural dyeing techniques flourished in local communities with local flora and fauna. Plants, trees, bark, lichen, shrubs, mushrooms, and even seaweed were used to decorate clothing and other textiles with vivid colors. Often because of the weather and land which limited the use of crop growing there was little land that could be used for farming. Because of this, trading was a large part of the economy.  Natural dyeing supplies and garments were included in this important part of trading and economy.

Natural dyeing is still a flourishing artform in modern day Nordic culture and of course, an American culture. Join us with local artist Megan Mesloh to experiment with these techniques.

If weather permitting classes will be outside at Nordic Northwest’s forested Fogelbo property. Students please wear long pants or an apron, close toed shoes