This workshop will cover the science of natural dyeing in a fun and approachable way, giving students the knowledge and confidence to start experimenting with dye plants right in their own backyard! by understanding the basic chemistry of natural dyes, you'll be able to grow and forage a wider variety of plants while troubleshooting issues and learning how to evaluate how colourfast a dye might be (and what to do with those more fugitive results). please bring a pen and paper for taking notes. handouts will also be provided.
Date: Saturday, July 24
Time: 10am - 12pm
Cost: $45
Location: Long Way Homestead
the workshop will include:
some recommended natural dyes easily grown/found in the pembina fibreshed
the science of natural dyes, including the difference between protein and cellulose fibres and their associated scouring and mordanting processes, as well as the different types of natural dye chemical groups which determine your colour results
ethical foraging 101
practical tips on how to play with locally grown and foraged natural dyes and how to troubleshoot common issues, including what to do if you don't get the colour results you want, reliable research sources of historical dye plant uses in the region to help you plan your next dye experiment, and how to test for colourfastness
Instructor: Ash Ahlberg
Covid Precautions: We take the safety of all participants and instructors serious as we navigate the ongoing Covid-19 health situation. We will follow all Provincial health guidelines and reserve the right to cancel any in-person classes if the guidelines change. We keep class sizes small, and ensure there is enough space in our venues to keep participants safe. We will have hand washing available and hand sanitizer. Please wear a mask and do not attend if you have been experiencing any covid symptoms or have known exposure to a confirmed covid case.
Accessibility: We are constantly working to make our facilities accessible. The driveway, walkways, dye studeio and outdoor workshops spaces are grass and gravel and accessible by wheelchair. The outhouse, indoor studio space and wool mill all have one step access. We are working hard to improve accessibility on the farm, thank you for your patience.