Capture the Colours of Nature with ancient and sustainable dye techniques on this one-day introductory course on the world of natural dyeing
Join dye expert, Jenny Mercer for a day discovering the world of natural dyeing using plants we find all around us. At the end of the course you will take home a scarf to add to your wardrobe, that you have dyed yourself using one of the palette of natural colours extracted on the day.
Plan of the Day:You will be welcomed with refreshments before Jenny will give you an introduction to the colourful world of natural dyeing, including a brief history, looking at source plants, the process of extraction and dyeing.
Together you will use a variety of plants to extract their natural dyes, which you will prepare together and the pots will boil away during the morning as you work. The dyes will be used on a scarf which you will prepare with mordants to bond the dye to the material, with Jenny taking you through the process step by step.
You will break for a delicious lunch, all homemade in the venue kitchen, and if the weather is fine, you can step out and enjoy the cottage garden and flower borders at the beautiful secluded venue in the heart of East Sussex.
The afternoon will be used to complete the process of dyeing your scarf which you will be able to enjoy long beyond the course day, or you may like to make one to give as a gift.
Subjects Covered:A brief history of dyeing
Understanding the importance of mordants in the dyeing process
The differences in plants used for dyeing
Technique and method used in dyeing fabric
An overview of the use of natural dyeing in today’s world
Have an understanding of process of extracting natural dyes from a range of plants
Have used different plants to create a number of different dyes
Dyed a scarf in one plant dye, selecting the colour from the range created
Have samples and records of your work to take away with you
Jenny Mercer trained as a textile designer 30 years ago in Scotland and has since worked as a dyer in opera, ballet and theatre companies across the country. Jenny is passionate about sharing her skills and expertise with others, particularly focusing on using natural dyes because they are so much better for the environment. It has been a voyage of discovery for her finding so many dyes are naturally available from plants in her local area, on her allotment, and in her own garden.
The day includes:All materials and equipment needed for the course
A fantastic handmade Field Foods lunch
Refreshments throughout the day
Use of a craft apron
No experience necessary
Jenny teaches in small, informal groups (max 8).
The day is very hands-on, practical and relaxed.
The beautifully converted Field Foods Sussex barn is on the edge of a rose garden in the heart of the South Downs near the village of Piddinghoe, East Sussex. Field Foods are known for their outstanding locally sourced sustainable food, and the refreshments and lunch included in the course ticket will all be handmade in their kitchen, and will be another highlight of the day.
Early Bird Ticket £120 (first 4 tickets sold)
Standard Ticket £130
Tickets include all materials, expert tuition, refreshments and lunch.
Friday 13th September 2024
10.00am – 3.00pm
Piddinghoe, East Sussex – directions to the venue will be sent upon booking
Once you have booked, you will receive an email confirmation – please check your junk mail if you have not heard from us.
About 2 weeks before your course date you will receive another email giving directions and any joining instructions – please check your junk folder if you haven’t received anything.
We run a number of natural dyeing workshops each year, as well as weaving, pressed flower art, fused glass and lino printing crafting days. You can find out more about all our crafting courses HERE.
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Tel: 01273 834 083
Sussex Garden School
Oak Studio
Old Barn Nurseries
Worthing Road, Dial Post
Horsham RH13 8NU
