Japanese Shibori dyeing has become popular over the years, due to its unique look. In this beginner's course, you’ll learn a combination of techniques to make 2-3 medium to large pieces to refresh your wardrobe or living room. Feel free to bring one extra item like a dress, t-shirt or pillow case white/pastel only and 100% cotton. Materials and fabric included in fee and value $40.

Shibori Quest

Course Description

Japanese indigo shibori is a timeless and captivating textile art that has been practiced for centuries. Shibori refers to a range of Japanese methods used to create patterns on fabric through folding, twisting, stitching, or binding the material before dyeing it. The technique results in intricate, one-of-a-kind designs, often using indigo dye to achieve its characteristic deep blue hues. Shibori has a rich history and continues to be popular in contemporary fashion and design, with its stunning patterns adding a unique touch to everything from clothing to home décor.

In this foundation course, you'll begin with a brief introduction to both natural and synthetic indigo dyeing recipes. You will then explore various techniques such as folding, pleating, and stitching to create beautiful, detailed patterns on fabric. 

The course also covers how to make a dye-bath, allowing you to properly immerse and dye your pieces. By the end of the course, you’ll have dyed and finished your own fabric creations, and you’ll also learn how to store or repurpose any leftover dye for future projects. 

This hands-on workshop offers a perfect introduction to the art of shibori and allows you to create unique pieces while learning valuable techniques that you can continue to explore.

Course Structure

This is a hands-on class. Students will practice three to four different folding, stitching, and pleating techniques on medium to large pieces, and participate in the dye-bath preparation, and dyeing, washing, and finishing of fabrics.

Students can take notes and photos of the process and ask questions. 

Course Learning Outcomes

Students who attend this course will:

• Understand the basics of Japanese indigo shibori and its history.
• Learn how to prepare both natural and synthetic indigo dye recipes.
• Practice various techniques, including folding, stitching, and pleating, to create unique patterns on fabric.
• Gain hands-on experience in making a dye-bath and dyeing fabric.
• Complete the dyeing process, including washing and finishing your fabric creations.
• Learn how to store or reuse leftover dye for future projects.
• Build confidence in using shibori techniques to create one-of-a-kind designs.

Course Requirements

Students should bring a medium big needle with a large eye, upholstery thread, scissors, kitchen or rubber gloves, a 6 to 8 litre bucket, three plastic bags, a 2-litre clean plastic bottle (to carry left over dye) and reading glasses if required.

The course fee includes all other materials and use of the equipment supplied by the tutor.

You are welcome to purchase an additional dye kit from the tutor on the day, for future use. The kit costs $40 payable directly to the tutor by cash or PayID.