The media often portray Viking era textiles as dull brown and grays, but archeological evidence shows otherwise. The Norse dressed in blues, pinks, and other bright colors. Learn how they added color to their life through vibrant textiles in this historically grounded natural dye class.

In this class, we will explore the beautiful colors that can be coaxed from natural sources such as bark, leaves, roots, and even the lichen common to our northern landscapes in both the Midwest and Scandinavia. The dyes we will be using are based on archeological digs in Jorvik (York) and throughout Scandinavia. Students will receive a minimum of seven 30 yard skeins of yarn to dye in the colors of their choice (enough for a small project), and will learn how to prepare dye baths, mordant fibers, modify colors, and even identify common dye plants that might already be in your backyard.

This introductory level class’ discussions will also touch on ethical harvesting, dye methods, a history of natural dyes, and the Scandinavian techniques of using lichens for dye baths.

Students ages 16+ may register for this course. Youth ages 13-15 may register if accompanied by an adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full paying adult; call to register. 

Required Tools

• All required tools/materials are provided by your instructor and North House and will be available once the course begins.

Optional Tools

• Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.