Dyeing cloth using natural materials is a magical process: Add a bit of steam and assorted leaves, flowers, and old rusty nails, and wait an hour…the results are extraordinary. Who knew all the colors of nature were hidden in plain sight? In this course, you’ll learn a bit about the history, chemistry and new innovations in natural dyeing processes and use a variety of materials that will vary seasonally. You never quite know what you'll pull out of the steam box, and working with other students allows for a wide variety of experiments and collaborations to occur. The materials fee includes three silk scarves students will complete during the course.

North House is looking forward to hosting this course on campus in the safest way possible. Students will be asked to wear a mask at all times on campus, and to practice social distancing of 6 feet, as well as adhere to other safety protocols. See the full details of our COVID-19 protocols here.

You will need the following tools for this class:

Please bring plant materials if possible - the more the better, to add to the selection we will have available.  Flowers can be picked a few days beforehand and kept in a cool place - do not dry them.  Bring delphinium, begonias, geraniums, snapdragons, zinnias, berries... any plant that leaves a stain when rubbed against your skin has dye potential.  Wild grapes were our favorite new dye material last year - more of those, please!

You will be provided with 3 silk scarves. Wear clothing/shoes suitable for working with dye.