Hand-Dyeing Silk: Ancient Techniques, Modern Creations
June 13 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
$155.00
Dyed fabrics fill our lives, closets, and homes, but have you ever wondered how these textiles are created? Or why we have such an affinity for colorful fabrics? Join artist and instructor Dianne Zald for a full day workshop on hand-dyeing silk, and explore the ancient roots of this craft.
Resist dye techniques like Shibori, Serti, and Batik—originating in Japan, France, and Indonesia—have spread across the world and remained popular methods of hand-dyeing for thousands of years. Dianne will lead the class through these traditional dyeing techniques, encouraging students to play and explore with one or multiple styles, depending on the pace set by the class.
Outside at the historic Leelanau County Poor Farm, you’ll have the charming and peaceful backdrop of a 20th century barn as you find expressive ways to add vibrant hues to the fibers of an 18×18 piece of silk in a stretcher frame. Bring new curiosity to a tradition that has taken a backseat in favor of more uniform fabric designs and mass-marketed textiles.
This foundational class is perfect for beginners, whether you’re a textile lover, artist, or simply curious about the magical process of dyeing silk by hand. By the end of the day, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the process of fabric dying, along with your very own hand-dyed silk creations to take home.
Itinerary:
Morning: We’ll start by gathering outside at the poor farm, and sharing some introductions with one another. Then we’ll get right into some of the history and basics of Shibori, Serti, and Batik techniques. You’ll learn about the properties of silk, and how the material interacts with color. Before lunch, you’ll have an idea of which technique you’d like to explore in-depth.
Break for lunch
Afternoon: The afternoon will be spent designing and carrying out your individual projects. They’ll have time to dry before they’re finished and ready to take home. The day will conclude with some time to gather in reflection. Students will share projects with one another, and we’ll recap the skills that you’ve gained to continue fabric dyeing on your own!
What you get from the class:
- An understanding of three distinct hand dyeing techniques
- A day of experimenting and exploring how various dyes interact with silk
- A visit to the grounds of the beautiful historic Leelanau County poor farm barn
- Your own hand-dyed silk pieces
- The skills and insight necessary to continue dyeing by hand
Meet Your Instructor:
Dianne Zald
When Dianne first experienced the art of fabric dyeing, she immediately fell in love with the process of transforming raw materials into wearable works of art. As an artist based in Interlochen, Michigan, she is constantly inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds her, which is reflected in Dianne’s hand-dyed silk pieces through the incorporation of interesting textures inspired by nature and colorful hues. Dianne’s goal is to create pieces that evoke a sense of uniqueness and speak to the “spirited heart” of the wearer.
Dyeing to know more?: In a world of fast fashion, where we can buy new clothes with the click of a button, we rarely think about the time and artistry that go into making textiles. Dianne’s silk dyeing class provides an opportunity to form a connection with textiles. The hope is that students leave with a greater understanding of how colorful fabrics come to be. With this understanding comes the opportunity to bring new life to old pieces of clothing or textiles in the home. Hand dyeing allows us to be more aware of the fabric products in our lives, and gives us the ability to add personality and expression into the things we wear and use on a daily basis.
Green Door classes are immersive and intentionally long. We find that over prolonged time together, students form deeper bonds with each other, the craft, and their instructor for an over all more impactful experience. Even if you are a Traverse City local, the intention is that these classes feel a bit like a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you are visiting from afar, the experience can be even deeper.
Class Details:
Where is the class held?: This class is held at the Leelanau County Poor Farm Barn. This gorgeous site serves as the perfect outdoor setting for a dye class, while also providing students with a window into the historic past of Leelanau County!
Cost: $155 per person which includes a $30 material fee (includes all necessary tools and materials)
Date/Time: June 13th @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prerequisites/Skill Level/Age Requirements:
- No prior experience required.
- Ages 18+
Booking Information and Policies:
What happens after I book the class?: After you book, we will send you a confirmation email that you are IN! A week out from the class, we will send you an email with more details about our meeting locations and some housekeeping items.
Want to make sure you have all of the information before you dive in? Here’s our cancelation policy: We understand that plans change, and we do our best to accommodate while honoring the time, energy, and resources that go into preparing for each class.
Cancellations made more than 14 days before the class start date Receive a full refund, minus a $25 administrative fee. This fee helps cover the cost of filling your spot. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds for cancellations made less than 14 calendar days before class begins.
At this time, we are not able to offer:
• Course credit
• Transfers to other courses
This policy allows us to keep class sizes small and intimate, while minimizing pressure to increase overall course costs.
If the class is canceled by the school: In the event of inclement weather or other disruptions, we will issue a full refund and do our best to offer a reschedule option.
Policies:
Go for it! This class is for former lovers of middle school science experiments, self-declared DIY experts, those with a knack for painting and drawing, and anyone curious and brave enough to try something new.