Indigo Shibori Workshop, with dye artist Danny Ross

Join us at Blooms on 7 for an evening beginner indigo-dyeing workshop with Danny Ross from IOTA Studio. Danny is a mathematician-turned-textile artist from Edmonton who has practiced Indigo dyeing for six years, learning shibori from professional dye artists in Montreal, Seattle, Tokyo and Sumoto, Japan.

Over the course of the workshop, Danny will provide a general overview of indigo history, chemistry and dyeing methods and then guide participants through various wood-block resist techniques to create ready to wear or ready to display indigo-dyed items.

Participants will:

• Use wood blocks, clamps and twine to practice traditional itajime shibori resist techniques to create a 60cm x 60cm Japanese cotton/silk scarf or cotton/hemp wall-hanging
• Be given an opportunity to learn and practice a variety of techniques before completing their final projects
• Learn about alternate forms of vat and dye preparation, additional techniques, and best practices for dyeing at home. 

This class is suitable for beginner or intermediate indigo-dyers. All materials and supplies are included (you may choose to bring your own small cotton, silk or linen swatches to test techniques, though these materials will also be provided). Be sure to wear clothes and shoes that can be stained.

Photos courtesy of Jay Walker Photography.