Introduction to Natural Plant Dyes Workshop

Description

Do you want to start your natural plant dyes journey?  Don’t know where to start, then join me in this workshop to learn about using natural plant dyes.  We will start with the absolute basics, including how to prepare fibre for dyeing and which plants can safely be used.

Starting at 9.30am we will prepare and mordant some British wool fibre ready for dyeing.  Then set up the pots to extract the dyes.  There will be a break for refreshments, whilst I teach you some of the basic knowledge you need to successfully carry out dyeing experiments at home.  This will also cover health and safety.  The final stage will be dyeing the fibres with more discussion of the methodology.  Before washing and taking home what you have created.

We aim to finish at 12.30pm

Key areas covered in the natural dye course:

• How to prepare protein and cellulose fibres for dyeing – what is the difference.
• What a mordant is and how to use them safely.
• Types of dye plant.
• How to dye.
• Health and safety – not all natural things are safe!

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.

The dyes I plan to use are madder and weld, although this may change with season and availability.

Please note:

Courses run at Penally are limited to a maximum of 3 participants.  This is because it is held in my home and there is limited off-road parking.  I have 2 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.

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.

All courses run from 9.30am – 12.30pm 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.

Children

All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult who has paid in full.  Young people have a reduced rate, please contact me BEFORE booking.

Dates

Thursday 9th April 2026 – FULL
Saturday 9th May 2026
Saturday 6th June 2026
Saturday 4th July 2026
Saturday 12th September 2026