Create one-of-a-kind wearable art with flowers!
In this two hour workshop, we'll learn about the history of natural dyes and the process of transforming plants you can grow at home into beautiful, lasting pigments.
As part of the experience, you will dye your own take-home item using the technique of bundle dyeing, which involves wrapping or "bundling" dye flowers in clothing to create unique botanical imprints (like a natural tie-dye!). We will utilize a variety of dye material including dried flowers, plant extracts, and kitchen waste to create a range of natural colors.
Working with natural dyes is a practice in appreciating the slow process and letting go of expectations of a certain result. You'll find that many plants yield surprising colors. This class is suitable for all skill levels and will be perfect for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with the natural world through fun, fulfilling, and colorful creativity.
There are many lessons to be learned in the dye pot. We hope you can join us to experience the joy and wonder of working with natural dye plants!
Program Notes:
Dye Project: Each participant will dye one item during the class. This item can be purchased during registration or brought from home. See details below:
- Purchased during registration: when signing up, participants wishing to purchase a dye item can select either a silk bandana or a cotton tote bag. Each item is $7. Add-on orders are available up to two weeks before the class, so make sure to register by Sunday, May 31st if you would like to purchase a dye item instead of supplying your own. All participants who register after May 31st will need to bring their own dye item.
- Brought from home: dye item must be of a reasonable size and lightness and composed of natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk, etc.). If you are unsure about whether an item will be suitable, you can reach out to the instructor, Chelsea Thompson, at chelsea@earthencolor.com.
- Examples of items to consider bringing: white or lightly-colored t-shirt, bandana, socks, or pillow-case
- Examples of items NOT to bring: anything bulky like jeans or jackets, sheets, or anything made of synthetic fibers.
Environment: This class will take place primarily indoors.
Arrival: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin the class on time.
Audience: While designed for adults, this program is suitable for children as young as 10. Young children may accompany registered adults for free. However, if you would like your child to have their own take-home project, you will need to register them separately due to supply costs and availability. Otherwise, parents attending with children should expect to share a project.
Cost: The standard price for this program is $66, including dye stuff, processing of materials, and teaching. Sliding scale pricing is available to support accessibility. An add-on dye item can be purchased during registration (see above).
All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here.
About the Instructor: Chelsea Thompson
Chelsea Thompson is a textile artist focusing on the use of plant dyes as a way to explore and strengthen a relationship with the natural world. Growing up on a horse farm has lead her to be endlessly inspired by the slow process and nuances of nature. She has fibers degree from Savannah College of Art and Design, where a creative vision was born through the project Earthencolor. With the use of botanical dyes, Earthencolor aims to convey a story through bespoke garments, accessories, and home goods. As a part of an ethos in using natural dyes, there is a belief that the colors processed from plants are synonymous to a life harmonious with the outdoors; each color yielded is unique in a life and story of its own, continuous of its former physical state.
Learn more about Chelsea's work at earthencolor.com. She can also be found on Instagram at @_earthencolor_
York, PA 17406
United States
| Bundle Dye with Botanicals | |
| Tier 1 (regular admission) | $66.00 |
| Tier 2 (reduced cost) | $56.00 |
| Tier 3 (pay-it-forward) | $76.00 |
| Dye Project | |
| Silk Bandana | $7.00 |
| Cotton Tote | $7.00 |
| I will bring my own item to dye | $0.00 |