Shibori: Block and Bind Dye Techniques with Indigo
Taught by Karin Persan
Karin Persan is a hands on textile designer and maker, working from her store and studio in Bushwick, Brooklyn. She received her BFA in 2001 from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she focused in Fiber and Material Studies. She formed her line "Better Than Jam" of printed clothing and accessories shortly after graduating, while teaching on the side. In early 2010 she opened a boutique of the same name, which has since grown to include a communal studio and workshop space.
Learn the traditional art of shibori dyeing with indigo dye.
In this class, you'll be shown how to start your own indigo vat and balance it to keep it going. 3-5 folding, wrapping and twisting resist techniques will be demonstrated, and you'll select a few that you're drawn to and dye some of the plain items you have lying around the house!
Materials are provided for all attendees, so you don't necessarily need to bring anything. Each student will get to dye 3 pieces during the class time. There will be tea towels to dye, enough for each person. However it is always fun to liven up what you have lying around, so you're welcome to bring small-medium size item to dye (ie bedding is too big for the class set up). Items must be natural fiber only. PRE-WASHED Silk,Cotton, and Linens are best! Manufactured cellulose fabrics like modal, tencel, and rayon are okay too. Indigo will not bond with synthetic fibers, which will cause infinite dye bleeding and fading, so watch out for blend fabrics.
Make sure to not wear your best outfit or shoes (white canvas or leather shoes are the worst). Indigo is a very wonderful dye, it will be lots of fun, but it can get messy! Wearing dark colors, or indigo blue can be helpful. There will be aprons and gloves for everyone.
Be aware that you will be bringing damp pieces away with you. We have some baggies but if you have reusable totes, bring them :-)
