Ref: SWE41728
In this workshop you will learn how to mordant print and create patterned fabric with a wide range of foraged seasonal plant dyes.
This course will enable you to explore the ancient art of chinz making by experimenting with a range of mordants and mark making, including brushes/paints, blocks and stencils. There will also be an opportunity to cut a block of your own.
You will forage for your own seasonal plant matter across the West Dean estate. You will learn how to forage sustainably and identify common and rare flora. These plant dyes will then go onto form the basis of our mordant dyeing - providing an incredible range of colours and tones.
As well as a sample book of patterned cloth samples recording your recipes, mark making and colour tests with different plants, you will also have the opportunity to make a larger fabric piece for use in your own practice or at home.
The aim of this workshop is to give you the confidence to work seasonally, locally and sustainably and to learn more about the ancient art of chinz fabric printing and dyeing. You will come away with a Seasonal Dye and Recipe Book as well as the knowledge to create your own patterned fabrics in harmony with nature.
On this course, the following items will be supplied:
For the foraging: foraging bags (a clean cloth bag or basket), secateurs and gardening gloves.
For the dyeing: an apron, Marigold gloves and a waterproof pen (for writing labels) Also a notebook An apron and covered, non-slip footwear is advised
For printing - a range of paint brushes for applying the mordant
Additional fabric, if needed
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am-5pm
Morning session: 9.15am-12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm-2pm (lunch included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am.
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
Sarah Burns is a pattern-maker and textile printer. She studied politics at Jesus College, Cambridge, and Textile Design at Chelsea College of Art. She teaches natural dyeing and printing in her West Sussex studio as well as at Ditchling Museum. Her designs can be seen at the Guy Goodfellow Collection in Chelsea, at Dartington Hall, and as part of the Virginia White Collection.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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