Learn to make and use two types of indigo vats — fructose & iron

Join Judi Pettite onsite at the Fibershed Learning Center in Point Reyes Station for a day of indigo — from a tour of the Fibershed pigment garden, to a demonstration of how to make a fructose vat and an iron vat (works well on cotton and can be used air temperature or cold), to the pleasure of dyeing your favorite fabrics and/or yarns in the class vats. We will be using the pigment extracted from Japanese indigo (Persicaria tinctoria), grown in the Fibershed pigment garden or in Judi’s dye garden in Southern California.

Bring your scoured protein or cellulose yarn or fabric to the workshop. After everyone has dyed an initial round of 8 ounces of yarn or fabric, another 8 ounces can be dyed at the end of the day if the vats are still giving pigment. Also bring an apron, notebook, and camera if desired.

Students should bring their own lunch, snacks, and beverages (water bottle/travel mug). Lunch is not provided. Since there will be time outdoors in the garden, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Enroll here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/325448062917

Judi Pettite is an artist, researcher and educator currently living in Southern California. In the field, studio or on the road, she is interested in what motivates people to work with natural pigments, how they forage or cultivate these materials and how this creativity is expressed. Her artwork is intertwined with the exploration of natural mediums and is inspired by many art forms, including painting, drawing, performance and installation.

Judi started the BioHue project in 2006 to create plant-based pigments for use in her art practice. The project moved her beyond the studio and into the outdoors she loves. Through her workshops and products, Judi hopes to support and develop an interest in sustainable colors for artists.

Fibershed Scholarship Program
Fibershed is offering two scholarships to most workshops; one scholarship if it’s a small class. If you would not otherwise be able to attend, and would like to be considered as a scholarship recipient, please answer a few brief questions on this Google Form. Responses will be reviewed by Learning Center staff and kept strictly confidential.

Photos of Judi and students by Paige Green