Design Museum Academy Adult Workshop
Workshop: Natural Dyes
Explore the fundamentals of natural fabric dyes in this taster workshop, where you will learn how to use cooking waste and plants to create a rich palette of colours on fabric.
What to expect
This workshop will focus on materials and techniques that can be easily replicated in a domestic setup, utilising cooking waste and common plants that can be foraged without harming ecosystems.
Learn about the science behind natural dyes, how to practice safely and gain a better understanding of technical considerations such as which fabrics react best to dyes and why, and how to prepare textiles beforehand to achieve long-lasting results. You will explore the difference between ‘permeant’ and ‘fugitive’ dyes and how to use them creatively, and you will learn how to best utilise natural dye methods to refresh clothes and home textiles.
Throughout the workshop, you will experiment with different seasonal plants and food waste, to create a rich palate of shades. You will leave this workshop with a set of swatches and dye recipes to keep experimenting with natural dye techniques.
Learning outcomes:
Understanding the fundamentals of natural dyes, from the science behind them to technical considerations and safety
Using different types of dyes, understanding how they react to different fabrics, and how to use them creatively
Experimenting with different seasonal plants and food waste
Selecting the best methods to refresh clothes and home textiles.
Please note:
Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment
All equipment, materials and light refreshments will be provided
This workshop is suitable for adults 18+
The morning and afternoon workshops are independent sessions with the same content taught in each, so please book the one you'd like to attend
All photos courtesy of Bella Gonshorovitz. Credit Julius Honnor
Facilitator
Bella Gonshorovitz
Bella is a fashion designer, sustainability-focused practitioner, and the author of ‘Grow, Cook, Dye, Wear – From seed to style the sustainable way’ published by DK. She is passionate about bringing circularity to life and connecting us to the notion that all we consume and create comes from – and goes back to – nature. Visit Bella's website
BOOK ONLINE
Booking information
Adult: £66
Early bird Adult: £59
Student: £59
Early bird Student: £54
Members: £53
Early bird tickets are available until Friday 20 June.
Check out the Design Museum Academy refunds and cancellations policy here.
The morning and afternoon workshops are independent sessions with the same content taught in each. Please book the one you'd like to attend via the link below.
Additional information
Please note that this workshop is for participants over 18 years old, and the content and complexity have been tailored accordingly.
If you would like to let us know about any access requirements, including neurodiversity, there is the option to notify us at the ticket checkout.
If you would like to have 1:1 support for this workshop, you are welcome to bring a companion to support you on your project, at no extra cost. To request a companion spot please email DMAcademy@designmuseum.org with your booking information.
This session has a capacity of 12 participants, and one facilitator will be leading the sessions. So the ratio of participants per facilitator will be 12:1.
If you have any questions, please contact DMAcademy@designmuseum.org
Images: Bella Gonshorovitz Archives. Credit Julius Honnor.