Indigo Dyeing Workshop at Elsie's Tavern

This is a great introduction to natural dye because unlike other natural dyes, you don't need to mordant the fiber (prep the fiber for dyeing) as the indigo attaches to natural fibers very easy! This means you can bring 1 to 2 small items to the workshop to give your item new life! (Please no large blankets or towels as they will take up to much room for everyone else please ;) )

Lighter colored cloth will give you a better contrast for the resist pattern, or you can just dip it for an allover color or graduated ombre. Natural fibers like cotton, hemp, bamboo, silk, wool, etc are best for this dye process. Synthetic fibers will not readily take the dye. We will be exploring different resist techniques utilizing tying, folding, clamping, and more to get interesting patterns on the fabric.

Bring your imagination and leave behind any self-doubt or reservation because no matter what you do, your fabric will look so cool and you will have a blast doing it! This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone curious about natural dyeing. No experience necessary. I do recommend wearing things you don't mind a few blue drips, just in case.

Saturday, January 15th 10am-3pm

Elsie's Tavern

117 W De La Guerra

Santa Barbara 93101

This workshop will be held in person in Elsie's Tavern Courtyard Outside.

Elsie's Tavern is a local institution open weekday mornings at 7:30am for coffee and tea with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating as well as a pool table and full wine and bar menu and closes at 2am.