Aya Fiber Studio

The Magic of Indigo: Shibori & Natural Dyeing for Beginners and Beyond

Step into the rich blue world of indigo—a dye as ancient as it is magical, with roots in ritual, mystery, and generations of global tradition. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll discover how humble plant leaves “make blue”, unlocking the chemistry and character behind this legendary natural dye.

We’ll begin by building a natural indigo vat, using powdered indigo and a safe modern reducer. As the vat brews and transforms, you'll learn the alchemy behind this living dye and why it's inspired centuries of folklore and careful ritual.

Then the real fun begins—Shibori! You’ll explore the beauty of resist dyeing, using folding, clamping, twisting, and tying techniques to shape how indigo flows (or doesn’t!) across your fabric. Watch in awe as layer after layer of dips reveal gorgeous gradients of blue, signature to indigo’s magic.

You’ll be working with traditional Japanese tenugui fabric,

What You’ll Learn:

• How to create and maintain a natural indigo vat
• The basic chemistry behind indigo dyeing
• Several classic Shibori resist techniques
• How to build layers of color and achieve stunning variations in hue

Level: Beginner to Intermediate – No prior dye experience needed!

What to Bring:

• Long rubber gloves (dishwashing style)
• Seam ripper or small sharp scissors
• Old shirt/apron and clothes you don’t mind getting blue
• Closed-toe shoes
• Assorted rubber bands
• Sewing needles with large eyes

Come ready to dip, twist, and dye your way into the blues!

MATERIALS FEE: $30pp

Materials provided include- 2 pc Japanese Tenugi fabric 36 x18, all materials to make indigo vat, vinegar for final soak, thread, string,