DESCRIPTION
I work with 3 different dye groups (or “classes”) in my studio practice: cold water fiber-reactives, hot water “acid” dyes, and botanical/naturals. Fiber-reactive dyes work best on cellulosics (plant-based fibers) and silk; “acids” work best on protein fibers (silk, wool); and natural dyes work for both. My workshops offer various types of opportunities to learning more about each dye group, from info/demo-type presentations to group assisted DIY sessions and workshop intensives. Each dye group comes with its own set of requirements and auxiliaries and all are handled accordingly. In workshops, along with technical practice, and design exploration, best studio practices with each dye group are also addressed. In the facilitated DIY sessions technical information is limited but hands-on experience is encouraged.
MODULES:
Workshops:
D&D I. Fiber-Reactive Dyes for the Small Textile Studio. In this workshop we will learn 2 approaches to fluid dyeing with cold water fiber-reactives: conventional salt-water immersion and low-water batching. Primary colors will be utilized to blend a wide variety of hues. May be thought of as a foundation for other direct application techniques as a way of creating complex patterns on cloth. Commonly used in tie-dyeing. All equipment, materials and supplies are provided. You will leave with samples, recipes, instructions and other resources for future exploration. 1 and 2-Day workshops
D&D II. Acid Dyes for the Small Textile Studio. In this workshop we will learn about hot water immersion dyeing with “acid” dyes and their auxiliaries, namely vinegar (and citric acid). Primary colors will be utilized to blend a wide variety of hues. May be thought of as a foundation for other direct application techniques as a way of creating complex patterns on cloth. Attention will also be paid to calculating formulas which support dye-pot exhaustion as a way of reducing water loss. All equipment, materials and supplies are provided. You will leave with samples, recipes, instructions and other resources for future exploration. 2-Day workshop
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Guided Group Mini Sessions:
If you want to find out about a dye group before investing in the tools and materials, OR you are just curious about the processes but aren’t interested in investing in an intensive, I offer short-duration assisted DIY sessions. These sessions provide access to prepared dye pots and vats and include a brief presentation about the colorant. A choice of small undyed (and pre-mordanted where applicable) items will be supplied. Surface design (if desired) will be achieved using shibori (e.g., clamping, binding) techniques. Participant will leave with a dyed item ready for rinsing, along with instructions for processing and a written overview of the process. Fee covers all materials and supplies. We won’t be mixing dyes in these classes. For a more in-depth experience, a workshop is recommended. 3-4 hours
CURRENT OFFERINGS:
None offered at this time.
If you would like to be placed on my workshop mailing list, please use the contact form below. Thank you!
Kathy Colt 