Events & Courses

Natural Dye for Beginners
2 days with Amanda Duke

This course will also run on 17th and 18th July and again on 4th/5th September
Offer – Earlybird course booking before the end of March £180. Thereafter the price will be £190.
Suitable for beginners.

Explore the breadth and variation of colour that can be extracted from local plants using traditional techniques to dye fabric samples. Whilst working in a group to create and share dye baths, you will learn about how to mordant fabric so that it will ‘catch’ and ‘fix’ to the fibres and be light fast.
By the end of the 2-day course you will know the basic principles and practice of natural dyeing. Spaces are limited to ensure you receive plenty of space and guidance. This course is suitable for beginners and those that have a little experience who would like some additional support and practise. All necessary dye stuffs and fabrics for dyeing samples are included in the course price. You will be introduced to solar dyeing, dyeing with heat and slow dyeing practices whilst dyeing a range of small samples of cotton, silk and wool fabric. In addition, you will practice modifying your initial dye samples to extend original colours and shades. Working in a group you will create dye baths and record your findings throughout the day so that you have reference notes and know how to extend your exploration at home. I will send you comprehensive course notes after the course for your reference.
As an additional and optional extra some course members may wish to dye a pre-mordanted silk scarf blank, these will be available to purchase on the day at £15 or £20 depending on the quality of silk selected.

On this course, I will supply materials, including: Plant and dye reference books, paper, and pens for the documentation of samples; dye pots and other dye equipment, disposable gloves, mordants, dye stuffs and modifiers. Cotton, Silk, and wool for dyeing. If you wish, as an optional extra, I will have prepared for dye silk scarf blanks available.
If you would like further details or to book a place please contact Amanda by email at amandagduke@gmail.com or via her website https://www.amandaduke.co.uk/

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