Sustainable Fashion Colour and Dyeing Short Course

About this course

Participants investigate sustainable approaches to fashion colour through hands-on dyeing processes using natural elements and plant-based colour. The course considers how these techniques can be applied across protein fibres, plant fibres and selected garments. The work also connects textile experimentation with fashion design, including the development of a portfolio that represents a designer’s identity across 2D and 3D outcomes. The course is intended for learners exploring alternative approaches to fashion practice.

What you'll learn

• Construct a solar oven for generating energy during the dyeing process.
• Produce plant-based dyes from natural and reclaimed sources.
• Apply dyeing techniques to protein fibres, plant fibres and garments.
• Develop portfolio work linking 2D textile design with 3D fashion outcomes.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for fashion students and graduates, as well as aspiring and established fashion designers. Its Improver level suggests an introduction beyond fundamental practice, while the hands-on format involves making and testing dyeing processes.

• Suitable for learners developing sustainable or alternative approaches to fashion design.
• Intended for participants connected with fashion study or professional practice.

Before you go

• Participants create and keep their own solar oven and dyes.
• Natural dye sources may include off-site nature, gardens, vegan food waste, recycling centres and zero-waste shops.
• Dyeing can be carried out on protein and plant fibres and on garments of the participant’s choice.