Natural Dye Workshop at the Flower Farm
About the Event
Do you love flowers? Plants? Nature? Have you ever wondered how to create color with nature? Or print lasting flowers on fabric?
Come discover the fundamentals of natural dyes, flower printing, and bundle dying with a two-hour course. In this interactive class, you will learn the techniques of how to print with fresh flowers (some of which you'll gather yourself at the flower farm) and bundle dye with plants, flowers, and vegetables. We will be dying with many items such as: a variety of fresh and dried flowers, onion skins, black beans, and cochineal. You will get the opportunity to create your very own silk scarf to take home. Invite a friend or two to enjoy the morning at the beautiful Laurel Botanicals.
You will also have the option to experiment with Tataki Zome (Flower Printing) which is the Japanese art of flower pounding. This involves hammering on flowers or leaves to transfer their pigments onto a material, in this case, your scarf! You can achieve some really accurate and lovely imprints of flowers and leaves with this technique and we think you'll find it rather theraputic!
What’s included?
- The fundamentals of natural dyeing
- materials, mordanting, equipment, etc.
-Step by step instruction to the technique of flower printing AND bundle dyeing at home
- Workbook with all the instructions to take home
- Your own 25” x 25” flower printed or bundle dyed silk scarf
- Fresh and dried flowers, plants, and vegetables to create your silk scarf
- The opportunity to pick your own flowers and plants from Laurel Botanicals Flower Farm
- Memories and laughter with old or new friends
-Light snacks and sips on the house
About the artist:
Brooke Luallen is a local artisan of Fresno, California, who has fallen in love with natural dyes. She has discovered how nature can create beauty within your everyday life. Brooke has many titles: wife, mom of two little ones, art teacher by day, and owner of Smith & Len. She is thrilled to bring the art of natural dyes to the community of Fresno. She also teaches workshops on how to sustainably dye many different types of fibers.
FOLLOW @SMITH.AND.LEN ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.
What to do when you get to Laurel Botanicals:
You'll see a line of cork oak trees out front and green gates. Parking is parallel on Skyview Rd. Come on in though the carport into the back yard where the class will take place.
Feel free to wander the flower fields if you arrive a little early (especially our native circle garden), but please keep foot traffic to the alleys as walking on the beds is not good for the plants.
Be aware that this is a private residence. Bathrooms are available inside the house.
By entering the premises and/or participating in the event, the person(s) assume the risk of being on a farm and agree to not sue, and hold harmless the owners from any loss, liability, or damage incurred.
We look forward to creating with you!