Shibori, meaning to ring or press, is an ancient Japanese technique used to dye fabric by hand. In this workshop a variety of methods such as Kumo “cloud” binds and Itajime “clamp” folds will be applied to remnant cotton fabric and then dyed using natural indigo.
While the binds and folds used are typically repetitive in nature, the beauty of shibori lies in the nuances and irregularities that appear once the fabric has been removed from the dye bath. It is in the undoing of the wraps and restrictions that the perfectly imperfect patterns are revealed.
Indigo Insights has been designed for those with a beginner’s interest in natural dyeing or a general curiosity for traditional hand craft methods.
Cliona McLoughlin is a recent textile design graduate, specialising in printed textile design. With a passion for sustainability and a background in science, extensive sampling and experimental print techniques lie at the heart of her work.