Ink made from Sitka spruce needles, detailed prints of Pacific Ninebark leaves—these are just a few of the hidden treasures which await the naturalist dyer. In this workshop we will explore and document the dye and ink making potential of plants native to Cascade Head in our naturalist journals. Day one starts with an easy hike around the Grass Mountain site, making observations and gathering dye plants. Back in the studio, we will dye sample swatches and make botanical contact prints on paper and cloth using steam. On day two, we will pen our printed bundles, create inks and assemble our naturalist journals. Many skills will be presented in this workshop including preparing natural fibers for dyeing, creating dye baths, pigments and inks from plants, direct printing of plants onto paper and cloth using steam (known as eco-printing), simple book binding, plant identification, plant gathering ethics and dye studio safety. Skills learned can be applied to further enjoy any landscape.

The Naturalist Dyer: Using Native Plants as Dyes and Pigments

In Person or Online

Date and Time: 6/29/2021 - 6/30/2021 10:00 - 4:00

Total Cost: $225

Minimum Age Level: 16+

Skill Level: All Levels

Materials List: Students Bring

• Good walking shoes

• Apron or studio clothes

• 6 large office clips

• Note taking supplies

OPTIONAL:

• Glass dip pen for homemade inks

• Garden Clippers

• Garden type gloves

Materials List: Provided by Instructor(s)

• Detailed class handouts with all instructions and plant list

• A variety of prepared natural fabrics for botanical prints & sample swatches

• Watercolor paper for botanical prints

• All dye assists, modifiers and ink making supplies

• Small bottles for ink

•Dye pots & propane stoves

• Strainers, buckets, hot mitts, tongs, rubber gloves...

•Selection of field guides for student reference

• Online students will be mailed a kit, and receive instruction for setting up studio space prior to class.

Sign Up via Sitka Center starting February 23rd.