The Loom Shed Natural Dye Study Group

20^th September, 24^th January, 24^th April and 17^th July.

Wednesday evenings 7.30pm – 9pm

This year we are starting a new online study group for those interested in getting to grips with natural dyes. Perhaps you’ve tried a few different plants, but want to know why you get a certain colour. Or you’ve enjoyed a natural dye workshop and are hungry to know more: we will give you the framework for a thorough exploration of this topic.

We will be meeting seasonally throughout the year to explore weld in September, madder in January, Saxon blue in April then enjoy overdyeing in July. Each zoom session will be led by expert dyer and a Loom Shed regular tutor, Jane Deane who will lead us in a discussion, demonstrate a certain technique and set your project for the months ahead.

We will also be joined by Debbie Bamford, Helen Melvin and Nature’s Rainbow at different sessions throughout the year. They will also be sharing their areas of expertise and inspire you to explore a different avenues in your research.

We will be focussing on dyeing protein fibre for 2023/24, looking at different mordants and modifiers to create a wide palette of colours. We will also be discussing salient issues that affect the dyer – how best to dispose of your unwanted dye material? What is the best policy for foraging for materials? What effect does your water have on the colour?

You will need a certain amount of dye equipment and an area away from food preparation to complete this study. You will be sent a materials list in booking and we are working with Debbie Tomkies at DT Crafts to be our one-stop-shop for dyes, mordants, modifiers, mini skeins and equipment. She will also be able to answer any questions you may have about what resources you need.

We estimate this course will take approximately 12 hours of independent practice time, but we don’t ask you to produce a certain amount of samples. How involved you get with each session will depend on how much time you have available that season. Each session will be recorded and sent out to all participants in the following week, so that you can catch up if you miss an evening or simply watch a bit that needed clarifying again.

We will set up an online social group for you to share your results and ask questions throughout the year. It’s always good to have a group to celebrate your successes and commiserate your failures with!

This is a unique opportunity to study this fascinating topic in depth with experts in their fields, but also undertake your investigations in your own time.

***This group is now full, please email us hello@theloomshed.com if you would like to be added to the waiting list ***