Natural Dye Workshops

Learn how to dye with natural products and other Printing courses in Sydney.

Discover a “living” and sustainable colour palette with natural dyes and you will never look at your garden or kitchen in the same way!

Join this full-day workshop to learn the basics of natural dyeing, easy mordants, and how you can set this up at home to keep exploring this art form.

In this practical beginners course you will explore a variety of natural hand dyeing and colour application techniques and create your own fabulous effects on wool, silk and cotton using natural methods and materials.

Learn to make beautiful dyes with foraged plants, household food waste and by-products from an organic farm. Many everyday waste products create rich, gorgeous colours: avocado stones produce dusky pink, onion skins create bronze and carrot tops make a minty green (just a few examples!)

Ideal for

This is a beginner’s course, so no previous design, dye or printing experience is required.

Course content

• Use seasonal and native plants, fruits, vegetables and materials from home for natural dye projects
• Learn basic techniques: hot water extraction, steam bundle dying/ eco printing, solar dyeing and direct application methods
• Learn how different types of fibres (wool, silk and cotton) react to natural dyes
• Understand the basic principles of mordants
• Pots and equipment you need to do natural dyeing at home
• How to make a natural dye journal or "sampler"

You will dye and take home

• A cushion cover
• A long piece of wool-blend fabric to use as a scarf
• A cotton tote bag
• 100% silk, cotton and wool samples for a natural dye journal

What to bring

• Empty jars to take home your dyes and samples
• An old shirt or apron to wear while dyeing
• A notepad and pen or tablet to take notes
• Any natural, pre-washed garments or fabric to dye (optional)
• Any local plants or food scraps you wish to use for dyeing (optional)
• Lunch, water and snacks – it is a long day!

Other information

• Please wear closed-in shoes and old clothes
• All dyeing materials are natural and non-toxic – but may cause allergies. Please contact us to discuss if you are allergic to any plants, flowers, vegetables or berries

Avoid disappointment – enrol early

Please ensure you have given a valid e-mail address and mobile number as all course changes will be communicated via sms or e-mail.