Casey Newman – Indigo Dyeing Fabric and Paper

Workshop Description:

In this workshop we will create and use an indigo dye vat, and learn to create beautiful patterns by folding and binding fabric. There are infinite ways to manipulate fabric to create unique designs and everything necessary to try out numerous techniques will be provided. Dip dyeing produces stunning ombre designs with indigo dye and you will also have the opportunity to dye paper of various types and sizes. Several pieces of cotton fabric as well as a variety of paper to dye is included. You may bring additional items to dye. You will end the day with fabric and paper with beautiful blue and white designs to use in future projects such as bookbinding, sewing, home decor, card-making, and more!

Materials/equipment to be provided by students:

• Bone folder
• Ruler
• Small cutting mat
• Additional paper to dip-dye
• Additional fabric to dye. Fabric needs to be natural fibers (cotton, linen, wool, silk, hemp) and small/medium sized items will fit best in our dye vat. (T-shirt, pillowcase, dishtowel, small pieces of fabric yardage, etc.) There will be plenty of dye so don’t be shy about bringing extra things to dye!

See Materials Glossary for definitions and images

Materials/equipment to be provided by instructor:

• Indigo dye
• Shibori tools and equipment
• Cotton fabric
• High quality printmaking and mixed media paper

Instructor Biography:

Casey Newman is a naturalist and artist who incorporates nature into her work, creating a unique way to connect with the beauty of nature. She prints leaves onto fabric and paper using only the natural pigments found within each leaf. Prints show the unique details of the plant and tell a story of season and place. Casey also grows and gathers natural materials to make dyes for fabric. Her work is centered around northwest native plants and she is inspired by living and working at Cedar Dell Forest Farm on the outskirts of Portland, OR.

Website: www.cedardelldesigns.com