Mordant Printing with natural colour
- Saturday 7 March
- 10am - 2pm
- Burgh Yard Helensburgh
Natural dyeing and printmaking come together in this in-depth, hands-on introduction to mordant printing using natural materials.
A mordant is a naturally occurring mineral that helps fix natural dyes to cloth. In this workshop, you’ll work with two different types of mordant, applying them to fabric using blocks, stencils, brushes, and silk screen techniques. Once the cloth is immersed in the dye bath, your printed designs will be revealed through subtle shifts in colour and pattern.
The session begins with a detailed introduction to natural dyeing and mordanting, followed by a practical demonstration on mixing and preparing mordant pastes. You’ll then have time to experiment, choosing from a range of techniques to print your own designs onto cloth.
We’ll also cover the wider dyeing process, including preparing fabric for dyeing and setting up dye pots. While the cloth is in the dye bath, we’ll take a guided walk around the site to identify local dye plants and discuss how they can be used in future dyeing experiments. This offers a chance to deepen your understanding of natural colour beyond the workshop itself.
Good to know
- No previous experience necessary
- All materials provided
- Suitable for ages 18 and over
- Small group sizes for a relaxed, supportive learning environment
- Please wear older clothes, or clothing you don’t mind getting slightly stained
Location & access
The workshop will take place at the beautiful Burgh Yard, Helensburgh. It’s an easy walk from the train station and has level access from the street.
If you’re driving, there are a couple of parking spaces available at the yard, please let me know if you’d like to use one. The studio is located in the centre of Helensburgh and is close to cafés, coffee shops, and takeaways.
Please let me know if you have any access requirements so I can help ensure you’re able to fully participate in the workshop.
Refreshments
Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day, and there will be time to pop out for lunch or enjoy your own food in the studio.
