Natural Dye and Sustainable Print Spring

About this course

Participants investigate plant sources in the college dye garden, including suitable plant parts, responsible foraging and cultivation. The course covers fabric preparation, mordants, seasonal dyes, botanical contact printing, eco printing, resist techniques and the creation of screen-printing inks from natural dye pastes and modifiers. Teaching combines demonstrations, group learning, discussion and individual guidance. Learners experiment with colour, pattern and texture on different fabrics, recording recipes, swatches and processes in a sample book. Those developing an individual project can receive guidance during the course.

What you'll learn

• Identify suitable dye plants and consider approaches to dye-garden design
• Prepare fabrics and use mordants to strengthen natural colours
• Apply botanical contact printing, eco printing and resist-dye techniques
• Create layered screen prints using natural dye pastes and colour modifiers
• Document dye recipes, methods and textile samples for future reference

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners, intermediate learners and those with existing natural-dyeing experience. Teaching includes group learning alongside individual guidance, with opportunities for experienced participants to build on previous skills or develop an individual project.

• A reasonable level of fitness is required for using the second-floor studio and dye garden
• Learners can receive guidance while developing an individual project

Before you go

• Learners should bring a sketchbook or presentation book, pen, rubber gloves and an apron.
• The studio is on the second floor. Partial disabled access is available via a lift to the first floor and a stair lift to the second; learners with mobility support needs are advised to contact ALS before enrolling.