Natural Dyes: Start with a Scarf

Learn the basics of natural dyeing and create a dyed silk scarf to take home with you. This course offers a brief introduction to natural dyes and their rich and ancient history. You will learn how to prepare fabrics and dyes, and how to mordant silk. By the end of the day, you will have dyed a beautiful silk scarf using simple decorative techniques.

Isabella has been working with textiles for more than 30 years. Her interest in natural dyes was sparked in the 1990s after a lecture given by Jenny Balfour Paul, a world authority on indigo. She began to use natural dyes in her studio and started researching the trade history of orchil, a purple dye obtained from lichens.

Isabella combines her studio work dyeing scarves and shawls with teaching, writing and further research: she is a Member of MAKE Southwest, (formerly The Devon Guild of Craftsmen).

On the day, attendees will need to buy a suitable scarf for dyeing. Prices range from £8.50–£24. All other materials and equipment will be provided. See below for details of what to bring on the day. 

Please bring with you:

• Your booking reference number
• A notebook and pencil to make notes
• A pair of household gloves
• An apron / old shirt
• A folder or envelope to hold samples to take home
• Optional: A pair of scissors
• Camera (or mobile phone for photos)

Please wear old clothes and closed-toed shoes. Lunch and refreshments included. 

Tutor: Isabella Whitworth