Indigo and Clay: Resist Printed Fabrics

"Unlock the ancient art of indigo dyeing combined with the innovative technique of clay-resist painting in this two-day workshop! In this immersive experience, you’ll learn how to screenprint and paint clay resist designs onto fabric, creating stunning and unique patterns. Then, you’ll dye your creations in a beautiful indigo vat to achieve rich, deep hues that contrast perfectly with your hand-painted designs.

On day one, we’ll introduce you to the basics of indigo dyeing and demonstrate the process of creating and applying a clay resist. Using screenprinting and hand-painting techniques, you’ll create your own custom patterns on fabric or garments. Clay resist serves as a barrier, preventing the indigo dye from penetrating the areas where it's applied, allowing you to create bold, dynamic designs with intricate patterns and textures.

On day two, you'll have the opportunity to immerse your cloth in the indigo dye vat, watching your artwork transform as the fabric absorbs the dye. The resist will protect certain areas of your fabric, revealing stunning contrast and creating one-of-a-kind designs. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a hand-painted, indigo-dyed garment or cloth that reflects your personal style and creativity.

This workshop is perfect for those interested in textile art, indigo dyeing, or learning new ways to manipulate fabric. No prior experience is necessary, but a love for art and exploration is highly encouraged!

Note: This course is for ages 16+. If you require special accommodation for this course, please contact grant.benoit@craftalliance.org. All materials included. Students should wear closed toed shoes. and long hair must be tied back to ensure your safety while working in the studio."