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Natural Dyes, Making a Sustainable Studio

Students will explore the art and nature of using plant-based materials to create vibrant, eco-friendly dyes. Over consecutive classes, participants will learn the fundamentals of scouring, mordanting, and dyeing various fibers with natural materials like turmeric, avocado pits, and cochineal. The course will include hands-on activities such as immersion dyeing, shibori resist techniques, and eco-printing, with a focus on sustainable practices and the history behind each dye source. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of natural dyes, how to apply them creatively, and how to integrate sustainable studio practices into their work. 

  • Fee: $275
  • Item #: 41356

  • NO class on 11/27.

    Students enrolled in this class are invited to participate in our Fall CE Student Art Show. Visit our Art Show page for more details.
    Map and directions to locate your classroom.
    Supplies are required for this course.
    There are textbooks required for this course:
    Jenny Dean. Wild Colour
    • Jim Liles. The Art and Craft of Natural Dyeing - Traditional Recipes for Modern Use
    • Dominique Cardon. Natural Dyes: Sources, Tradition, Technology and Science
    • Joy Boutrup, Catharine Ellis. The Art and Science of Natural Dyes: Principles, Experiments, and Results

  • Fall 2025

  • This class is already in session. Please contact our office at conted@seattlecolleges.edu or 206-934-3705 to inquire about late registration.