Introduction to dye techniques

City Lit

Course

In London

£ 239 VAT inc.

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Description

  • Type

    Course

  • Location

    London

  • Start date

    Different dates available

Enrich your textiles with an exciting week of dye workshops. Learn how to colour a wide range of natural fabrics; linen, cotton, silk, and wool. The structure of the course is ideal for beginners, or students whose skills may be rusty. The course will cover the basic elements of dyeing; shibori and dip-dye, simple natural dye techniques, Dyeing mixed fibers, and indigo vat.

Each session will involve demonstrations of new techniques, to enable students to understand how to mix dye-baths for themselves. There will be plenty of opportunities to practice dyeing small sample pieces of fabric or hanks of hanks of yarn. By the end of the course you will have created a collection of dyed samples, and started to make a unique dye reference book.

Facilities

Location

Start date

London
See map
Keeley Street, Covent Garden, WC2B 4BA

Start date

Different dates availableEnrolment now open

About this course

- Recognise some different types of fibres, and know which dyes are suitable to use.
- Use a variety of dyes on a wide range of natural fibres.
- Select dye shades, in order to obtain more specific colour matches.
- Describe the differences between synthetic and natural dyes, and the unique dye properties of indigo.
- Safely mix and use dyes, and dye auxiliary chemicals.
- Make simple fold, pleat and wrap shibori patterns.
- Make a dye reference book.

Colour inspiration, if you want to try matching dye colours.
All basic material to dye will be provided, but you may wish to bring some extra pieces of fabric to supplement and add contrast to the fabric provided. Natural fibers will dye the most successfully (cotton, linen, silk, wool). Apron and gloves (there are some available to borrow). Wear sturdy shoes and old clothes – be prepared to get messy!

Through practical demonstrations both to the group and to individuals. Group discussions and feedback are encouraged.

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Subjects

  • VAT

Course programme

- Types of fibres, and use of the correct dyes.
- Begin to match dye baths to colour swatches.
- Understanding chemical dye auxiliaries, and how to mix and use procion and acid dyes.
- Simple natural dyes and mordants.
- Mixing and using a synthetic indigo vat.
- Procedure for using the dyes safely.
- Shibori and dip-dye techniques.
- Making a dye reference book.
- Looking at dyestuffs in historical and contemporary context.

Additional information

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 19:00. See the course guide for term dates and further details

See related categories

Introduction to dye techniques

£ 239 VAT inc.

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