Invasive Color: Using Invasive Species as Natural Dyes
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August 20, 2022
9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Many of the plants we now consider invasive species were brought to this country for a purpose. This workshop explores several invasive plants which can be used as natural dyes. There’s no guilt about peeling off the bark or pulling up the whole plant to make these dye baths!
You will learn plant identification, a bit of natural history, methods to prevent spread of invasive species, and how to use these otherwise undesirable species to create beautiful colors. Experimentation will include the use of modifiers and mordants and several different methods for obtaining colors. You will go home with a minimum of eight different dyed skeins, approximately 25 yards each. The instructor will provide yarn and all dye materials. Students should bring a plastic bag for samples.
Registration Includes
Patient instruction and all required materials, including yarn and mordant (value $20). By the end of class, you will go home with eight 25-yard mini-skeins of wool, and the knowledge of how to make more.
You should bring…
Bring a bag to bring home your wet samples. Some folks also like to bring paper/pencil to take notes.
Skill Level
This class is for anyone.
Best for Ages…
13 years and older.
Instructor
Venue: 239 McDonnell Rd
Description:
This class will be based at 239 McDonnell Road, near the north eastern edge of Duluth, where there is a workshop outbuilding, outdoor work space, trails, forests, and open fields. Restroom facility is a portable toilet. Since this location is near Lake Superior, the temperatures can be cooler than you think. Plan accordingly.
Please pull down the driveway past the house to the outbuilding and park on the edge of the driveway. Staff will meet you at the outbuilding.
Click on the map image to open directions in Google Maps:
