Aya Fiber Studio

Katazome: The Art of Japanese Stencil Dyeing

Step into the world of katazome, the elegant and centuries-old Japanese art of stencil dyeing. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to create intricate patterns on fabric using resist paste, hand-cut stencils, and natural dyes—most notably, indigo.

"Kata" means stencil, and "zome" comes from the verb someru, meaning to dye. Together, they describe a dyeing technique rooted in precision, patience, and beauty. Though the process is methodical, it’s deeply rewarding—each step builds toward richly patterned cloth, full of texture and storytelling.

In this workshop, you’ll learn to:

• Select and prepare fabric for katazome
• Design and cut your stencil
• Mix and apply traditional rice paste resist
• Layer colors and values using indigo
• Remove resist and reveal your final design

We’ll explore every stage of the katazome process—from the first stencil cut to the final rinse—using both traditional tools and contemporary adaptations for home studios. You'll learn how to build and maintain an indigo vat, understand timing and moisture control, and achieve clean, clear patterns on cotton and linen.

Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced fiber artist looking to deepen your surface design skills, this class offers valuable techniques and creative inspiration.

What’s Included:

• A $65 materials kit (payable to the instructor) with all the essentials to get started
• Additional tools and supplies are available for purchase in class

Join us to experience the quiet rhythm and bold results of katazome—and leave with fabric that's as beautiful as it is meaningful.

Supply List: https://www.ayafiberstudio.com/workshop-materials-links