Introduction to Indigo Dye Processes Workshop

The indigo vat can yield magical fabrics.

In this introductory workshop I will explain the chemical magic that coerces beautiful shades of blue from the leaves of the indigo plant. I’ll give an overview of the techniques used in the pictures above and then demonstrate setting up an indigo vat that you can reproduce on your own.

We’ll then dive in (yes, you’ll probably end up with blue hands!) and experiment with simple clamping techniques to create blue patterned cloth.

Supplies provided:

Indigo Dye Vat

Clamps and supplies needed for resist techniques

Sample cottons for dyeing

Tea Towel for a finished project

Supplies you should bring:

Something small you’d like to dye (optional, and subject to suitability to the dye process)

Pen and paper for notetaking

Camera (everyone loves to photo their blue hands!)