Wild Dyes and Eco Printing Workshop

Alchemy: “a seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination”

Become an alchemist for a day in the beautiful ancient woodland of Whittle Dene. Using fresh leaves foraged from the woodland and provided by workshop facilitator Gillian, you will create a unique eco printed silk scarf and a selection of beautiful printed paper to take home with you.

About the workshop

• Take a wander through the ancient woodland and learn about some of the different plant materials that can be used for eco printing.
• We will forage for leaves before heading to our beautiful outdoor workshop area where you will learn how to harness the tannins in the leaves using heat, water and contact to transfer the image and natural dye onto fabric.
• During this practical workshop you be taken step-by-step through the various methods of preparing the fabric, printing, and after care.
• Take home your own printed silk scarf and printed papers as well as a comprehensive guide to continuing your practice at home and suggestions for materials and other resources.

About the facilitator Gillian is a locally-based craftswoman who uses the eco print technique to transform second hand clothing from unloved to one-off pieces of wearable art. You can see examples of her work and read more about the process of eco printing here.

On the day

• Please wear closed shoes (no sandals or flip flops), sensible clothes that you don’t mind getting wet and your own apron. Non-latex gloves will be provided but do bring your own ifyou prefer.
• If you have some of your own leaves you would like to use please contact Gillian beforehand as some leaves work a lot better than others!
• Cost to include all materials (please bring your own packed lunch)