Wondering how to convert the leaves of Japanese indigo (Persicaria tinctoria) into blue pigment? Join us at the beautiful Fibershed Learning Center on Black Mountain Ranch near Point Reyes Station, CA, for a day of indigo extraction with Judi Pettite — from a tour of the Fibershed pigment garden, to a demonstration of harvesting the last indigo of the season, then extracting the pigment from the leaves onsite using a passive fermentation process. Our focus will be on small batch extraction for home gardeners, dyers and artisans. Dried indigo pigment can be stored for later use in a dye vat or for art mediums like paints, inks and pastels.

Students should bring their own lunch, snacks, and beverages (water bottle/travel mug), as well as an apron, notebook, and camera. Since there will be time outdoors in the garden, be sure to wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Enroll here: eventbrite.com/e/656974377047

Judi Pettite, MFA, MA is an artist and instructor working with natural pigments for applications in painting, drawing and sculpture. She lives and works in Long Beach, CA.

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.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Refunds (minus Eventbrite fees) available up to 30 before the event. If you cancel after 30 days before the event we can only offer a refund (minus Eventbrite fees) if we are able to fill your space from the waitlist. Otherwise there will be no refunds or transfers.

Tuition Scholarships & Transportation/Childcare Stipends
Fibershed is offering two scholarships to most workshops; one scholarship if it’s a small class. In addition to scholarships for tuition, we are offering a limited number of stipends for transportation and/or childcare. If you would not otherwise be able to attend, and would like to be considered as a scholarship and/or stipend recipient, please answer a few brief questions on this Google Form. Responses will be reviewed by Learning Center staff and kept strictly confidential.

BONUS: The Clothing Swap Closet is now open during workshops and events at the Fibershed Learning Center!

Visit the Clothing Swap Closet when you attend a workshop or event at the Learning Center and exchange your natural fiber garments and accessories. Your clothing contributions must be clean and in good condition. Each contribution entitles you to choose one item of comparable value.

You may arrive up to 30 minutes early for the workshop you are attending, and/or depart up to an hour after the workshop ends, to allow time to browse and try on items in the closet, and make your trade!

Photos above of Judi Pettite in Fibershed’s pigment garden and indigo extraction in progress by Paige Green