Indigo Shibori Dye with Laura of Griffin Dyeworks

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS CLASS REQUIRES A CASH MATERIAL FEE OF $10 PAYABLE TO THE INSTRUCTOR IN ADDITION TO THE CLASS FEE.

Using indigo dye vats, we'll explore shibori techniques for textile dyeing. This class will cover major shibori resist techniques like Kanoko (similar to western tie-dye), Kumo (pleated and thread-bound resists), Nui (stitched resists), Arashi (pole-wrapped resists), Itajime (folded fabric using clamped resists), and Bomaki (pleated and wrapped to include texture as well as color).

We'll also discuss how to use found and upcycled objects and how to combine techniques and layers of dye for unique effects. Materials fee of $10 will include one cotton and one silk piece per student. Students may bring up to 2 additional items for dyeing. Items should be primarily (70% or more) natural fiber, including cotton, linen, bamboo, silk and thin wool. Wovens fabrics work better than knits for clean lines, but tee shirts are fine. Additional dye blanks will be available to purchase at class.

PLEASE DO NOT bring denim, canvas, cotton or wool fleece, or other heavy fabric items like sweaters or hoodies; these items require a significant amount of extra dye. Wear clothes you don't mind getting stained or bring an apron; gloves provided.

Laura Davis is a fourth generation Californian who has spent the past 20 years living in Los Angeles. She is a lifelong addict to all kinds of textile arts, including crochet & knit, sewing, embroidery, weaving, spinning, dyeing and botanical printing. California is a rich environment for natural dye materials, and Laura spends a great deal of time exploring and discovering, collecting, and experimenting with ways to use our natural bounty in textile arts. Laura has been teaching fiber art classes through Griffin Dyeworks in 2015 and now teaches various dye and other textile arts classes for adults, teens, and children throughout the year.