The traditional Japanese art of katazome is ancient. Kata means stencil and zome is a form of the word someru which means to dye- hence katazome (stencil dyeing)

The basic process of stencil dyeing is not complicated. First, a stencil is cut and placed on a piece of fabric. Next resist paste is applied through the stencil. The

The stencil is then removed, and the pasted fabric is allowed to dry in the sunlight. Fabric is then treated with sizing if going to be dyed with pigments. Fabric is then indigo dyed or the color pigments brushed on.

Finally, the fabrics are soaked in water to remove the paste.

The steps of katazome must be followed in sequence, and timing is essential.

Basic Katazome Stages

· Select and treat fabric

· Design Cut and reinforce stencil

· Prepare paste-resist

· Prepare board and position fabric

· Apply paste resist to stencil

· Remove stencil paper

· Dry Fabric

· Apply soy milk to the fabric ( for pigments)

· Dye Fabric

· Steam fabric if necessary

· Soak fabric to remove paste

· Dry fabric

During this workshop, we will work through each of the steps. Along the way, we will discuss traditional materials and explore contemporary alternatives for use in a home studio. We will learn how to build and balance the natural indigo vat and create layered patterns with various shades of blue on cotton and linen. Students who have some dyeing or printmaking experience will enhance their practice and beginners will get a valuable introduction. This workshop has no supply fee; a $60 kit fee is payable to the instructor at the beginning of class. Kit includes: Exacto knife, punch, Japanese fabric, stencil paper, silk gauze

The instructor will also have additional materials for sale

All levels are welcome.

This workshop will be running concurrently with the Sukumo Vatting Workshop during the Blue in the Mountains Indigo and Shibori Retreat- Participants will be able to participate in both workshops as we will work around the Vatting steps

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

KATAZOME- Japanese Paste Resist with Suzanne Connors