Dyeing with Woad to get Blue

Description

To dye natural fibres and fabric blue with Woad (indigo), a totally different dye process is needed.  It is a mixture of science, alchemy and magic.  You can never guarantee what will happen, but that is part of the fun!

Initially we will set up the dye bath with either fresh Woad leaves or Woad balls depending on the time of year. While we wait for the bath to settle, we will look at the history of using Woad as a dye and the principles behind how the magic happens.

Key areas covered in the dyeing with woad course:

• How to prepare protein and cellulose fibres for dyeing – what is the difference.
• The principles behind obtaining blue from Woad/Indigo.
• How to prepare the dye bath.
• Health and safety – we will be using a chemical to create the right conditions for the magic to happen.

If you have something small you want to dye, please contact me.  It must be an untreated natural fibre, e.g. cotton, linen, wool, alpaca or silk.

All courses run from 10am – 1pm with a refreshment/comfort break included.  I find that we can achieve as much in this time as in a day long course.  Please note, I do not provide handouts, but if you wish to make your own notes then you are welcome to do so.

Courses run at Penally are limited to a maximum of 3 participants.  This because it is held in my home and there is limited off-road parking.  I have 3 large dogs, who are locked out of the way during the course.  If you are allergic to dogs, please let me know and we will find a different venue (I have some courses planned in different venues).

My home is also at the top of 30 steps, so if you have limited mobility this would not be the best venue for you to attend.