Saturday, Oct 3, 2026

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Ages: 12+

Workshop fee: $109

Fee includes all materials, 2 large bandanas (27” x 27”), instruction, and handout

Location: NW Philly, address provided upon registration

This is an introduction to natural dyeing using bountiful marigolds grown by Courtney at Jewells in Bloom. In Kristen’s backyard studio in NW Philly, we’ll explore the possibilities of immersion dyeing with a focus on creating patterns using the ancient practice of shibori, a resist-dye technique with folds, rubber bands and clamps.

We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible.

We will fold, wrap, and clamp two different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the dye bath.

We will explore the use of modifiers to coax a full spectrum of golds, olive greens, orange, and yellows from marigolds.

I’ll guide you through the full natural dye process, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring, mordanting, and post-dye care to give your creations the longest life possible.

This workshop is not particularly messy, but we will be using chemical modifiers and you are encouraged to bring your own rubber gloves and smock or apron.

Come one come all! Bring your clumps of dahlia tubers (up to 3) to my house on Saturday November 14, 10-12 pm. I’ll show you how to clean, dry, divide and store your dahlias for winter and answer all your questions! We’ll go over techniques for dividing and storage- I’ll also be talking about ways to leave them in the ground if you’d rather. Supplies for storing dahlias will be included in the ticket cost. Swapping and trading tubers at this time will be encourage!