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Learn the Art and Science of Textile Dyeing

Learn the art of textile dyeing with the help of a professional dye artist!
Astrid Turner
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:
(882)
Star Educator
Class

What's included

2 live meetings
2 in-class hours

Class Experience

Textile dyeing is a world of possibilities. Acid and fiber reactive dyeing can be a great way to introduce young learners to that colorful world! 

In this class, students will dye two items while learning the following:

- How to safely dye textiles using acid dyes (using Kool-Aid!) and fiber reactive dyes
- What the difference is between cellulose, protein and synthetic fibers
- Why dyeing is considered a science as well as an art form
- The chemistry at work during the dyeing process

Day 1: Before class, students should dampen their cotton shirt (not too wet! You can place it in a quick spin cycle in the washing machine, or wring it out so that it is damp). We will begin with a discussion about fiber reactive dyes and different types of fibers. Next, we will prepare by tying and dyeing our shirts/items. A heart template is provided if the student would like the try a heart, but I will also demonstrate how to tie a spiral, bullseye or "scrunch", upon request. Students are welcome to ask questions as we go along. Since this project needs to "batch" for several hours, students will be advised to bag the project and let it sit, then rinse it out the next day (rinsing instructions will be included). We will share our completed and dried shirts at the beginning of our next class (Day 2). 

Day 2: Acid dying. Students will prepare their piece by dampening it before class starts. We will apply the dye together and allow a few minutes for students to microwave their items. We will then discuss the chemistry of acid dyeing while it cools, then will rinse the project together and share our work!

Much of our class will be spent discussing and explaining several different types of fibers and appropriate dyes for these. I will review some natural dyeing processes, but please note that our class will focus on permanent, colorfast dye methods that require specific types of dye (fiber reactive) for cotton fibers. 

For an appropriate work space, you might find it helpful to download Zoom on a mobile device (phone or tablet) and follow along from a sink. I often tie dye at my kitchen counter, bathroom sink or laundry room sink. If this is not possible to do, one option is to cover your table or desk with a plastic grocery or trash bag. 

If you'd prefer observing rather than dye your items on camera, you are free to do so! You are also welcome to ask any questions during the class and participate by sharing any experience you might have in textile dyeing.

Other Details

Supply List
Students will be required to acquire the following in advance (supply list upon enrollment explains in detail):

- Tulip One-Step tie dye kit (the kit with bottles and dye pre-measured, available at most craft and hobby stores), or any type of fiber reactive dye (a popular brand is Dharma Trading Co, available online only). (Week 1)
- Two items to dye. For the first class, the item must be 100% cotton. A plain white t-shirt or tank is preferred. For our second class, item must be wool, nylon or silk. Suggested items: silk scarf, wool yarn, or nylon shirt or tights. If selecting a nylon item, please ensure the tag says 100% nylon and not polyester or a different synthetic blend. Silk scarves or handkerchiefs are easy to find online or in local stores, and make great Waldorf-style play silks as well. If you choose wool yarn, tie it into a skein prior to class starting.
- Kool-Aid packets (1 packet per ounce of fabric/yarn, or as many colors as you will want to use). Make sure they are unsweetened (no sugar added)! Preferred colors: red, blue, yellow and blue. (Week 2)
- White vinegar (Week 2)
- Rubber bands: at least 4-5 
- Glass microwaveable bowl 
- Liquid measuring cup (ounces) 
- Plastic Saran wrap and plastic grocery bag
- Warm water
- Microwave
 3 files available upon enrollment
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined October, 2017
4.9
882reviews
Star Educator
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have several years of experience as a professional dye artist and owned my own textile dyeing shop. Some of my work included dyeing baby carriers and wraps, fabric yardage, wool and cotton yarn, clothing items and miscellaneous household items. I enjoy dyeing all types of fibers and have taught local classes on tie dyeing, galaxy and dip-dyeing, and batik. I also administrate several dyeing blogs, channels and tutorial groups, troubleshooting and assisting new dyers from around the world. I love working with permanent dyes, and am excited to share my love of dyeing with my students!

Reviews

Live Group Class
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$26

for 2 classes
1x per week, 2 weeks
60 min

Completed by 1 learner
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-14
3-9 learners per class

This class is no longer offered
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