We will be exploring Emandal's secret colors. During this workshop, we will discuss various methods for mordanting cellulose and protein fabrics/fibers using tannins and metal salts. We will also gather and process a range of dye plants and document our findings in a dye journal. I will provide cellulose and protein fabric samples that have been mordanted using various methods, allowing you to see the results and decide which mordanting method you prefer. I also have a tricks for removing friction from your creative practice and a simple way to keep track of dye experiments, making it easy to record your dye discoveries.

I will teach you the folk method way of natural dyeing. This intuitive dye method is based on general proportions. There is no difficult math involved. You don’t need to weigh everything meticulously. This is the perfect method to use when foraging and experimenting with natural dye plants. You’ll also receive a downloadable PDF with all the information you need to continue your exploration of plants and color. You are welcome to bring containers to take home any leftover dye. 

If you would like to dye more than just the fabric samples included in the materials fee, you are most welcome. Anything you bring must be prepped for dye. We will be using some dyes that don’t require mordanting. You are welcome to bring your pre-mordanted fabric, small accessories such as handkerchiefs or bandannas, and yarn to dye with the leftover dye materials. Some dyes we will be using are high in tannin and do not require mordanting. We can also create larger dye baths using plants that we find in abundance. Fabric should be no larger than fat quarters. All yarn needs to be skeined in hanks so it can be dyed. NO GARMENTS. 

If we have extra time, we can modify samples with iron, alkaline, or acid after baths.

I’m bringing my dye journals so you can look through them and we can decide what seasonal plants to explore. 

There will be downtime. Emandal is one of those magickal places without internet access. Being unplugged from the outside world and completely surrounded by an abundance of nature is a gift. This is one of my favorite places, and I want everyone to have a chance to explore and relax. 

Materials fee of $25 payable to the instructor. 

What You Need To Bring

• Apron to protect your clothes or wear clothes you’re ok with getting messy

• Household Rubber Gloves 

• Small Pruners or Garden Scissors

• Garden Gloves if you are prone to getting rashes when touching plants

• Journal/notebook(dye journal) If you don’t already have one and are wondering what to get please email me.

• Pen or Pencil

• Sun Hat

• Sun Block

• Optional: If you want to make Homemade Iron Water, please bring a mason jar, lid, and a handful of rusty objects.
  

I will have copies of my book for sale. If you already have a copy and would like me to sign it, please bring it with you. 

If you have any questions, please contact Heidi at honeyfolkclothing@gmail.com

Please check out the other Incredible workshops and teachers that will be at Art Stays. Memoir Writing: Susan Bono, Baskets from Nature: Louisa Lenz Porter, Wonders of the Oak Woodlands: Kate Marianchild, Illustrated Journaling:Laura Corben, Glass Mosaic: Elizabeth Raybee, Art Your Own Way: Independent Study

There are many options for lodging at Emandal. I’ve included all the options below. There is everything from houses to cabins in the woods.