In this hands-on Indigo dyeing workshop, explore the possibilities of Indigo with a focus on submersive dyeing and Shibori dyeing techniques. Shibori is a Japanese resist-dyeing technique that involves twisting cloth and binding it to create a vast array of patterns in the fabric.
Instructor Amy Johnson will guide you through the best methods for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection to washing, scouring, and post-dyeing treatment, which will give your dyed goods the longest life possible.
Mix a fructose indigo vat, stitch, wrap designs, and dip the fabric into the vat of our desired shade of indigo. Watch as patterns are created using folds, clamps, clothespins, rubber bands, and other available tools. By the end of the workshop, unfold the pieces and reveal the stunning one-of-a-kind patterns!
Make sure to wear clothes and shoes that you won’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
SVMoA will provide tea towels for participants to dye, but you are welcome to bring your own items to dye. Dyeable fabrics that work best for this process are wool, silk (100% animal protein fibers), 100% cotton, hemp, or bamboo fibers.
Age & Ability: 16+, beginners welcome!
This workshop takes place from 11am-4pm at the Hailey Classroom.
About the instructor
Amy Johnson holds a M.F.A. from the University of Washington ceramics program. She has maintained an active art career with exhibitions, performances, lectures, and numerous residency programs. In 2016 she was a national finalist for the Art Matters Foundation Grant, and in 2023 received a Performing & Media Arts Fellowship from the Idaho Commission on the Arts in support of her most recent project – Seasons Quartet. Johnson has received additional grants from The Rasmuson, The Alexa Rose Foundation, Alaska State Council on the Arts, Artist Trust, and The Vermont Studio Center.
