Intro To Natural Dyes with Riley Douglas
September 28th, 3 - 6:30 pm
Join Riley Douglas of Silk and Tulle at Able Trade for an all-inclusive natural dyeing class!
The natural world around us is filled with beautiful mysteries. Once you have started the path of natural dye, I must warn you it will never leave your thoughts and dreams. You will probably see the world in all-new shades and hues. The path of a natural dyer is one of reciprocity and love, Learning the names of the earth's plants, flowers, trees, mushrooms, and minerals and building a relationship on respect and admiration for all the world's gifts! Please join me in exploring color and living things we might usually overlook.
In this workshop, we will learn about the art of natural dye. Natural dye and color extraction have long been a tradition in many cultures for over 5,000 years. It’s a signifier of organ, spirituality, and value. It was one of the earliest goods to be distributed across the globe. People have started wars over the colors Blue, Purple, and Golden yellows. So, with modesty and respect, we will continue this legacy and see what colors and hues are around - This will be a gateway to the world of color as we explore techniques, materials, and the spectrum of colors we can achieve in the natural world!
Materials included
- One small silk scarf and one small cotton scarf
- Natural dye materials
- All needed tools and Supplies
- Gloves
This is a beginner-level course, and no previous experience is required.
This class can be a bit messy so come dressed prepared to mess!
Also included in class - a PDF document of covered materials and background information.
Class fee: $75 per person. All materials are included in class fee!
See link below to register.
About the artist:
Riley’s artistic practice explores Appalachian craft history and the cultivation of natural dye gardens. With a BFA in printmaking and art history from the Chicago Art Institute and transformative experiences at the Arrowmont and Penland Schools of Art and Craft, she specializes in growing, harvesting, and manipulating dye plants. Riley has seven years of experience working with natural dyes, emphasizing sustainable methodologies and lifestyles.
As the Community Garden Manager for Beardsley Farm, Riley fosters deep connections between humans and the more than human ecosystems. She is also a Board Member of the Museum of Infinite Outcomes and a certified Master Gardener from The University of Tennessee. Her work focuses on the maker's role in creating sustainable methodologies and lifestyles. Riley believes that communities—like gardens—thrive best with engagement, diversity, reciprocity, and a deep understanding of the rituals of biomes and life cycles.
To learn more about Riley, click here!