A day exploring natural indigo dye for textiles in the beautiful Garden Gallery at the Museum of Farnham, with natural dye artists from Farnham Crafts Quarter, Ginny Farquhar & Samantha Jones.

The day will begin by learning about two indigo bearing plants, which are grown at the museum; Japanese indigo and woad, including advice on how to grow them.
We will then create two indigo vats using natural indigo powder. Whilst these are settling, we will harvest and work with fresh Japanese indigo leaves and use direct processes to capture the colour on cloth.

After lunch, you will be guided in exploring patterning fabrics using simple stitched Shibori techniques. These pieces, plus plain fabric and fibre will then be dyed in the indigo vats where you will really experience the magical process of yellow/green cloth turning into blue before your eyes.

The day will have lots of opportunity for discussion and questions and will also cover health and safety, fibre preparation and recipes. All materials are included. Please bring your own apron and protective rubber gloves.
Please bring a packed lunch, which can be enjoyed in the museum’s beautiful walled garden.