Shibori Techniques

with Jenny Fong

Saturday, October 26, 11:00AM-4:00PM

Handcraft Studio School, 5885 Doyle Street, Emeryville, 510-332-6101

$150, limit 10 students

http://www.handcraftstudioschool.com/workshops/shibori-technique-1026

http://reluxia.com

“Shibori is a centuries old Japanese process of folding and clamping fabric, then dyeing in indigo to create beautiful patterns. In this dynamic workshop, you’ll learn several techniques and go home with swatches demonstrating each. We’ll also discuss how to dye with indigo for best results on natural fibers. Since shibori is a great way to repurpose old clothing and linens, please bring 5 pre-scoured* small pieces (for example: t-shirts, tote bags, pillow cases, etc) to dye. Fabric swatches and all clamping supplies will be provided.

Since this is a five hour workshop, you are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch. Light snacks and drinks will be provided

Please wear clothes you are comfortable getting dyed.

Jenny Fong grew up in Berkeley with a love for pleating and origami. After attending Parsons and designing apparel in NYC, she is happy to be relocated back in the Bay Area. She is eager to share her love for shibori and indigo dyeing in this dynamic workshop.

*To prep your fabric (scouring):

You will need: a stainless steel pot that will allow fabrics to move freely in water, baking soda, natural dish washing detergent and water.

1. For each gallon of water in your pot, add anywhere between 2-3 teaspoons of baking soda and 1-2 teaspoons of detergent. Again, that’s per gallon of water, not per pot.
2. Add the fabric and turn on the heat. Bring the water to a simmer and keep it there for a minimum of two hours. Four hours would be better if you can swing it. Stir the fabric occasionally with a long wooden spoon to make sure it launders evenly. The water will turn this ghastly yellow brown color.
3. Rinse the fabric very thoroughly in cold water.
4. From this point you can go straight on to the dyeing process with the fabric wet, or you can dry it and store it.”