Wild Pigments & Fiber: Dye with Fungi

 

Explore fungi growing in the Ely area, including how to test, extract and optimize the dye colors on fiber.  We will begin with a foraging field trip on Friday evening while learning the hosting tree communities and ethical harvesting.  

 

Multiple types of fibers (spun and woven) will be provided, which are ready to accept dye.  To save time, the fibers will be pre-scoured and pre-mordanted.  Instructions will be provided to scour and mordant fiber on your own (not during class).

 

On Saturday, we will learn to make the dye and experiment with pH to alter the values and hues on multiple natural fibers.  We will then learn to make ink for paper.  Instructions will be provided to make lake for watercolor on your own (not during class).  We will also discuss past uses of fungi as dye.  

 

You will take home samples of the experiments, written instructions for all parts of the process, and resources for further explorations at home.

 

About your instructor: Joan Hunn is an organic textile mixed media artist. She loves to explore and experiment with natural materials found on hikes in the rocks, forests and waters of the boreal forest. She makes inks, dyes and cordage from rock and plant pigments and plant fibers both foraged and grown in her garden. She seeks to protect and nourish the natural environment through sharing its wonders and gifts to others.