2022 Summer Program

Natural Indigo Dye With Shibori Resist Techniques

Take advantage of the connections with nature that surround The Clearing to learn about the long and tumultuous history and the fascinating properties of indigo, a dye that has been used for centuries. It was the “blue” that was used for the original blue jeans.

In this class, you’ll help start two natural indigo dye vats with safe, non-polluting ingredients. While waiting for the vats to be ready for dyeing, the class will explore various techniques of the Japanese form of shibori to create patterns on cotton fabric. Stitching, folding, clamping, tying techniques and more will provide a “resist” to the dye to make white on blue designs. Instructions will be provided for you to make your own indigo vat at home if you would like to continue with indigo work, and dye kits will be available to purchase from Kipp.

Parts of your dyed samples will be used to create a Japanese knot bag, traditionally used as a market bag. Various cotton fabrics that have been scoured and prepared are included in your kit to pattern and dye with the indigo that can be used to make your knot bag.

Bring a basic sewing kit with fabric scissors and your sewing machine. Please wear appropriate clothing and an apron to protect your clothing. This is a messy class!

Kipp Inglis was introduced to dyes made from plants after more than 30 years of dyeing wool with acid dyes for the quilting market. What she learned shifted her love of color and her work, and she found a need to facilitate change to a more sustainable and safer fiber art. Kipp began sewing at an early age. Stitching has always been a source of joy and comfort for her. She started teaching others as part of her program of costume design in college. She held second jobs teaching both machine and handwork at quilt shops just as quilting was growing in popularity. After retiring, Kipp decided to work full-time with plant dyes, natural fibers and teaching. She is connected to a worldwide network of natural dyers, makers and artisans trying to change the fashion, fiber and art world to focus on using non-manmade materials. The movement is growing, and Kipp is happy to be part of it. She holds classes in her dye studio and teaches stitching and dye work at quilt shops and other venues.

Kipp will contact students prior to class and will send a supply list.

Level: Intermediate sewing skills required
Materials Fee: $45 for one yard of cotton fabric, a cotton tea towel, shibori thread and needles, and a portion of the ingredients needed to prepare the two indigo dye vats, payable to Kipp during class.
Web: www.abotanicaldyery.com

Pricing (per person):
$1180 Dorm Room Package*
$1280 Two-Person Room Package*
$1920 Single-Person Room Package* (limited availability)
$675 Commuter Package** (limited availability)

*package includes tuition, lodging & 16 meals
**package includes tuition & 7 meals