In Praise of Persimmon Workshop
10:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Saturday, November 16, 2024
10:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Sunday, November 24, 2024
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, LA CA 90026
Join our favorite fall tradition!
If you tend, play host to or know of a HACHIYA persimmon tree - the larger teardrop shape ones, not the squatter FUYU variety, within a 45 minute drive from Dodger Stadium and would like to exchange fruit for a spot in the class , please get in touch. we are lining up fruit for the picking NOW as we require between 200-300 unripe (pale orange and firm) fruits for the class. A single mature tree often has more than is necessary for the class. WE WILL COME PICK THEM at your place in the week before - and will trim branches and clear dead wood so your tree will be more productive in future years. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about your persimmon tree and what to do with the fruits that often become food for flies, rats and squirrels when they splat down from the branches as they ripen.
In this one-day class we will explore both the artisanal pursuit of preparing Hoshigaki and persimmon vinegar AND exploring possibilities for dyeing using the fresh and fermented juice of the Hachiya persimmon!
Rose and I will be co-hosting this fruitful fall festival as we have for the past few years and we would be delighted to invite you at my workshop in Silver Lake.
We will begin the day with learning a bit about the history of this fruit in our region, selecting fruits for either dried preserving or vinegar making, then we’ll physically prepare the fruits so that they’ll have a chance to transform into the delightful, sugar coated treats - Hoshigaki! We’ll explain the vinegar making process (its so easy) and send you home with some to ferment on your own if you like!
After a lunch break, we’ll clear the table and set up to play with the fresh and preserved juice of the persimmon - naturally astringent. This tannin rich liquid is a traditional dye and fabric coating which darkens and becomes richer with time. You’ll leave with a bandana decorated in your own designs - permanent and washable! We will create patterns on the cloth by folding and dipping cotton into the potent persimmon juices.
Plan to bring an empty quart jar as well as a small clean cloth to carry your fruits home in.
The quote below is from Rose Fairley of Plant Friends in her blog post about the hoshigaki making process
We will be donating 10% of proceeds from this event to Tsuru for Solidarity
Persimmon trees are not indigenous to California. In the first half of the 20th century, many Japanese immigrants and Japanese American families planted persimmon trees as culturally important sources of food, medicine and dye. When I gather the fruit from these trees, I say thanks to the planters of these trees and the keepers of the cultural knowledge of this special process. I also mourn knowing that the US government incarcerated many of the same people who planted these trees. Of those who survived incarceration, many lost their homes and access to these mature trees after time in WWII Japanese internment camps.
Incarceration and displacement continue to impact communities in Los Angeles today. In deference to the gifts of the persimmons and the people who have tended this tradition as well as in acknowledgement of the history of incarceration and current oppression of immigrant communities, during persimmon season I donate to Tsuru for Solidarity, “a nonviolent, direct action project of Japanese American social justice advocates and allies working to end detention sites and support directly impacted immigrant and refugee communities that are being targeted by racist, inhumane immigration policies.”
Rainbow Shibori Class
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, LA CA 90026
Sunday, November 17 2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Limited to 8 Attendees
No experience necessaryIn this workshop, we’ll explore working with Indigo blue and the mordant dyes madder red and weld yellow.
We will layer these three primary color dyes on top of each other in order to create MANY different tones on a single piece of fabric - Grass green, plum, maroon, forest green, oranges and auburns.
All materials and supplies are provided. You’ll leave with at least two small square scarves dyed in your choice of color and pattern.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham and plaid looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
This is a good-times introduction to a range of natural dye plants and processes!
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Indigo Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
In Praise of Persimmon Workshop - November 24, 2024
10:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Saturday, November 16, 2024
10:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Sunday, November 24, 2024
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, LA CA 90026
Join our favorite fall tradition!
If you tend, play host to or know of a HACHIYA persimmon tree - the larger teardrop shape ones, not the squatter FUYU variety, within a 45 minute drive from Dodger Stadium and would like to exchange fruit for a spot in the class , please get in touch. we are lining up fruit for the picking NOW as we require between 200-300 unripe (pale orange and firm) fruits for the class. A single mature tree often has more than is necessary for the class. WE WILL COME PICK THEM at your place in the week before - and will trim branches and clear dead wood so your tree will be more productive in future years. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about your persimmon tree and what to do with the fruits that often become food for flies, rats and squirrels when they splat down from the branches as they ripen.
In this one-day class we will explore both the artisanal pursuit of preparing Hoshigaki and persimmon vinegar AND exploring possibilities for dyeing using the fresh and fermented juice of the Hachiya persimmon!
Rose and I will be co-hosting this fruitful fall festival as we have for the past few years and we would be delighted to invite you at my workshop in Silver Lake.
We will begin the day with learning a bit about the history of this fruit in our region, selecting fruits for either dried preserving or vinegar making, then we’ll physically prepare the fruits so that they’ll have a chance to transform into the delightful, sugar coated treats - Hoshigaki! We’ll explain the vinegar making process (its so easy) and send you home with some to ferment on your own if you like!
After a lunch break, we’ll clear the table and set up to play with the fresh and preserved juice of the persimmon - naturally astringent. This tannin rich liquid is a traditional dye and fabric coating which darkens and becomes richer with time. You’ll leave with a bandana decorated in your own designs - permanent and washable! We will create patterns on the cloth by folding and dipping cotton into the potent persimmon juices.
Plan to bring an empty quart jar as well as a small clean cloth to carry your fruits home in.
The quote below is from Rose Fairley of Plant Friends in her blog post about the hoshigaki making process
We will be donating 10% of proceeds from this event to Tsuru for Solidarity
Persimmon trees are not indigenous to California. In the first half of the 20th century, many Japanese immigrants and Japanese American families planted persimmon trees as culturally important sources of food, medicine and dye. When I gather the fruit from these trees, I say thanks to the planters of these trees and the keepers of the cultural knowledge of this special process. I also mourn knowing that the US government incarcerated many of the same people who planted these trees. Of those who survived incarceration, many lost their homes and access to these mature trees after time in WWII Japanese internment camps.
Incarceration and displacement continue to impact communities in Los Angeles today. In deference to the gifts of the persimmons and the people who have tended this tradition as well as in acknowledgement of the history of incarceration and current oppression of immigrant communities, during persimmon season I donate to Tsuru for Solidarity, “a nonviolent, direct action project of Japanese American social justice advocates and allies working to end detention sites and support directly impacted immigrant and refugee communities that are being targeted by racist, inhumane immigration policies.”
Block Printing With Natural Dyes
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking on back-to-back days - November 30 and December 1, 2024
How to Print a Bunch of the Same Thing - Session I
Session I - Two Days, Back to Back
Session I - December 4-5, 2024 or
Session II - December 11-12, 2024
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Daily - Lunch break in there around noon.
Consider this an instructional ridealong!
No experience strictly necessary but some natural dye know-how will provide additional context.
Graham regularly collaborates with artists to produce limited runs of naturally-dyed screen and block printed artwork. This two-day session is a unique opportunity. Unlike a typical workshop where specific instruction is given on a topic, this will be more akin to an apprenticeship or shadowing opportunity where we explore printing in multiple - a 50-100 piece edition of an artist collaboration print.
You will be working hands-on! In an environment of free exchange of information, Graham will be answering questions and guiding the events of the day as we work together through the process of actually printing a limited edition of an artist's design.
You'll have the opportunity to execute some printing and generally get your hands dirty in various steps of the process.
These sessions will allow just 3 attendees maximum to join Graham as he works through the typical production cycle for an artist print. Creating a single print or work has different considerations from creating multiple pieces. We will work through the following:
Sourcing Materials
Color Separation for multi-color works
Screen Selection and Size
Fabric preparation and handling
Pre-Print Planning
Mordant mixing and print-medium thickening
Print process - maneuvering materials and working with larger squeegees
Batch Dyeing and Color Planning
Post-dye fabric treatments and preparation for packaging
Finishing and packaging goods for sale
How to Print a Bunch of the Same Thing - Session II
Session II - Two Days, Back to Back
Session I - December 4-5, 2024 or
Session II - December 11-12, 2024
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Daily - Lunch break in there around noon.
Consider this an instructional ridealong!
No experience strictly necessary but some natural dye know-how will provide additional context.
Graham regularly collaborates with artists to produce limited runs of naturally-dyed screen and block printed artwork. This two-day session is a unique opportunity. Unlike a typical workshop where specific instruction is given on a topic, this will be more akin to an apprenticeship or shadowing opportunity where we explore printing in multiple - a 50-100 piece edition of an artist collaboration print.
You will be working hands-on! In an environment of free exchange of information, Graham will be answering questions and guiding the events of the day as we work together through the process of actually printing a limited edition of an artist's design.
You'll have the opportunity to execute some printing and generally get your hands dirty in various steps of the process.
These sessions will allow just 3 attendees maximum to join Graham as he works through the typical production cycle for an artist print. Creating a single print or work has different considerations from creating multiple pieces. We will work through the following:
Sourcing Materials
Color Separation for multi-color works
Screen Selection and Size
Fabric preparation and handling
Pre-Print Planning
Mordant mixing and print-medium thickening
Print process - maneuvering materials and working with larger squeegees
Batch Dyeing and Color Planning
Post-dye fabric treatments and preparation for packaging
Finishing and packaging goods for sale
Indigo Furoshiki - Dyeing and Using Gift Wrapping Cloths
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90026
1:00 to 4:30 PM, Saturday December 14, 2024
In this workshop we will explore decorating two lovely, square pieces of fabric about 27x27” that can be used and used again as gift wrapping for the holidays (or any days)! After dyeing the materials, we will practice different methods for folding and wrapping packages and gifts of different shapes and sizes.
• learn the basics of indigo dyeing such as mixing up a vat, proper dipping etiquette and washing suggestions
• explore different styles of creating graphic patterns on the fabric through folding, clamping or binding
• we will cover AT LEAST 4 major fold styles - Stripes, Grids, Kikko (hexagons) and Radial (flower and star shapes)
• we will present many different ways to fold, tie and use the wrapping cloths as a beautiful gift wrappig
• practice using your cloth as a wrapping for gifts between the sizes of a baseball to a shoebox - works great for bottles of wine - or even indigo dye kits :)
Red and White Shibori Dyeing for Furoshiki Gift Wraps
Sunday, December 15, 2024 1-4:30PM
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90026
Learn how to create repeat folded patterns using Madder root - a natural red dye!
Ditch the single-use wrapping paper and come get in the holiday spirit with Graham and Auri!
In this afternoon workshop we will explore the method of itajime shibori - using folding, clamps and wooden blocks to create patterns on fabric - all in seasonal red, pink and white coloring.
You’ll leave the class with two furoshiki, square pieces of fabric that can be used (and reused!) to wrap holiday gifts! After making our fabrics, we’ll practice wrapping a few different styles of gifts and boxes with them.
• Learn to prepare fabric for natural dyeing
• Learn to work with home-grown Madder Root and Madder Extract - a beautiful, natural red color!
• Practice folding, clamping, dipping and dyeing fabrics in a plethora of forms to control the patterns we create.
• All materials provided!
Indigo Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
Indigo Print Two Ways - Resist and Discharge
No Natural Dye Experience Necessary. This is an introduction and we’ll cover material from the ground up! Creating graphic designs using indigo dye is notoriously challenging. I’ll be drawing from my experiences, successes AND failures to demystify the process and make it as approachable as possible.
At Natural Dyes, 604 N. Occidental Boulevard LA, CA 90026
Saturday, January 18 and Sunday January 19, 2025 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Pack a lunch or plan to grab a bagel from Maury’s next door. Meal break from 12:15-1:00 ish
Limit 6 Attendees
RESIST : Indigo only dyes what it can touch! In this workshop students will learn to create a resist paste from rice flour. This paste will be applied onto fabric by brush, stencil and screen. Wherever the paste is applied, the fabric will remain un-dyed while the rest of the piece absorbs color.
DISCHARGE : Indigo can be selectively dissolved my the strong oxidizer Potassium Permanganate. We will learn how to prepare the solution to dissolve the indigo and apply it to the textile using brushes. Screen printing with the medium will be demonstrated but we don’t have time to execute it individually.
Students will explore layering prints to create different tones of blue and will practice the challenging and subtle techniques of dipping printed pieces and maintaining the health of an indigo vat.
SATURDAY
• Discuss fundamental concepts of an indigo vat and mix up a reduction vat. Dipping etiquette, tools and supplies
• Making Resist paste and cutting VERY simple stencils.
• Coating print boards and stretching fabrics
• Developing different tones of indigo on the piece by dipping multiple times and in different strength vats.
• Demonstration of making Shinshi as will more intricate stencils than we are able to accomplish in our limited time together.
• Dyeing and preparing fabric to receive discharge medium tomorrow
SUNDAY
• Applying discharge to fabrics using a variety of methods - brush, block and screen print.
• Removing deposited manganese from fabrics using lemon juice
• Rudimentary layering resist on fabric to create multiple tones of blue on the same fabric.
• Treatment of fabric to provide UV and wash-fastness protection for the indigo
• Sharing of resources for further exploration
Intricate Endeavors in Natural Dyeing @ Penland
TEXTILES – SUMMER SESSION 2
June 2-14, 2024 (11 STUDIO DAYS)
Graham Keegan
Natural Dyes: Intricate Endeavors
AT PENLAND SCHOOL OF CRAFT, PENLAND NC
With our eyes cast toward the 19th century zenith of natural dye printmaking (chintz!, calico!, William Morris!), we will move from creating simple dots and stripes toward executing complex, multi-colored prints on natural fabrics. Focusing on fabric preparation, mordant blending, and immersion dyeing, we will use precise measurements to create print mediums and demystify chemistry concepts in service of creating an explosion of color tones from each plant dye. We will cover repeat pattern planning and use brushes, pens, and blocks to apply mordants. Students will deepen their skills and understanding of how to conjure keystone colors and every tone in between. Come explore the prismatic potential of natural dyes. All levels. This workshop takes place in a third-floor walk-up studio that has partial access by a stair lift.
Working With The Indigo
Sunday, May 19, 2024
Instruction runs from 10:00 AM to 3:30PM - with a lunch break when we get hungry!
This is a unique class ONLY offered during the spring and early summer in Los Angeles when the Persicaria tictoria Indigo plants are in full leaf!
Class is taught at the Natural Dyes Workshop at 604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026
This class is all about getting to know the indigo plant and working with it directly on fabric. We’ll be practicing :
• Plant propagation, transplanting and care regimen.
• Direct printing of leaves onto silk fabric
• Dyeing directly onto whole pieces of silk using inhibited enzyme methods of “Salt Dyeing” or “Ice Dyeing” or both if we’ve got time!
• Aqueous Extraction of pigment from the leaves.
• Creating macerated leaf balls that can be dried, saved and used for later dyeing.
Indigo Shibori Workshop May 18, 2024
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
Rainbow Shibori Class
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, LA CA 90026
Sunday, November 17 2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Limited to 8 Attendees
No experience necessaryIn this workshop, we’ll explore working with Indigo blue and the mordant dyes madder red and weld yellow.
We will layer these three primary color dyes on top of each other in order to create MANY different tones on a single piece of fabric - Grass green, plum, maroon, forest green, oranges and auburns.
All materials and supplies are provided. You’ll leave with at least two small square scarves dyed in your choice of color and pattern.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham and plaid looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
This is a good-times introduction to a range of natural dye plants and processes!
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Rainbow Shibori In One Day
In this workshop, learn how to naturally dye fabrics using plants! Weld for yellows, madder for reds and Indigo for blue. With all the primary colors at our disposal, we can blend and layer to dye any color in the rainbow. Come, spend a day exploring this magical art form that stretches back to the dawn of human history.
Indigo Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
The Dyer Cultivator - Weeklong Natural Dye Workshop
No Natural Dye Experience Necessary. This is an introduction and we’ll cover material from the ground up!
Monday, March 11 - Friday, March 15, 2024. 10-3:30 Daily
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pack a lunch. Maury’s Bagels is next door, but heads up, they are closed on Mondays.
Max 8 Attendees
This week-long workshop - an introduction to working with natural dyes- is an opportunity to learn all about growing, cultivating and foraging your local area for plants and materials for use in your dye practice. We’ll dye with, and discuss the plants and materials at our disposal, Each student will create a group of swatches, bandanas and wrapping cloths (furoshiki) - in a rainbow of colors, dyed throughout the week using the plants grown at the shop and gathered from the neighborhood.
We’ll discuss and examine the growing of Japanese Indigo, Central American Indigo Species, Madder, Weld, Goldenrod, Purple Gromwell, Pomegranate, as well as foraging in the neighborhood for Peruvian Peppercorn, Cochineal and Eucalyptus. Students will leave the course with complimentary seeds and cuttings of each dye plant used. We will literally be planting the seeds of dye plants for future use. This is a great opportunity if you’re starting to create a natural dye garden.
The emphasis of this course will be the ORIGINS OF COLOR! To achieve different colors on the cloth, we’ll get to know a variety of plants, their growing needs, as well as general information on how to process and extract the colors and apply them to cloth. We’ll go through the process of preparing cloth to accept dye, the process of dyeing itself, and finishing techniques for the fabric in order to improve the longevity of the color.
Each day will include some excursion around the neighborhood for 20-30 minutes to acquire materials growing near the workshop. If you have issues with mobility, please get in touch with me to discuss, and we can make arrangements for your experience.
This course is meant to be an in depth-introduction to Natural Dyeing with a particular focus on the plants themselves and establishing the necessary skills to pursue your own dyeing practice after the class is complete.
Monday - Fiber types and their preparation: Wool, Silk, Linen, Hemp and Cotton. Color from Eucalyptus and Oak tannin. Seed sowing and seedling care.
Tuesday - A Neighborhood indigo vat activated from ingredients on the block. Dyeing with avocados with and without mordants.
Wednesday - Neighborhood red on protein fibers - no mordant necessary for this all-foraged red on silk and wool.
Thursday - Placement and discharge of Mordants using brushes
Friday - Indigo dyeing, plant care, layering colors and processes.
LIMITED TO 8 ATTENDEES - PREPAY TO RESERVE YOUR PLACE
Please see information on registration transfer and cancellations here.
Deep Into the Blue - Indigo 5 Class Series (5 of 5)
Graham Keegan leads an in-depth series of indigo focused classes on vat creation, tending and best dyeing practices amassed through more than a decade’s worth of experience growing and working with the indigo.
Deep Into the Blue - Indigo 5 Class Series (4 of 5)
Graham Keegan leads an in-depth series of indigo focused classes on vat creation, tending and best dyeing practices amassed through more than a decade’s worth of experience growing and working with the indigo.
Deep Into the Blue - Indigo 5 Class Series (3 of 5)
Graham Keegan leads an in-depth series of indigo focused classes on vat creation, tending and best dyeing practices amassed through more than a decade’s worth of experience growing and working with the indigo.
Deep Into the Blue - Indigo 5 Class Series (2 of 5)
Graham Keegan leads an in-depth series of indigo focused classes on vat creation, tending and best dyeing practices amassed through more than a decade’s worth of experience growing and working with the indigo.
Indigo & Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
Deep Into the Blue - Indigo 5 Class Series (1 of 5)
Graham Keegan leads an in-depth series of indigo focused classes on vat creation, tending and best dyeing practices amassed through more than a decade’s worth of experience growing and working with the indigo.
Block Printing with Natural Dyes
November 30 - December 1, 2024. Saturday and Sunday 1-4:30 PM
TWO DAY CLASS
Class size limited to 8
At the Natural Dyes Workshop, 604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90026
Over the course of a two-day weekend class, we will dive into the fundamentals of the traditional processes of block printing with natural dyes that dates back to some of our earliest recorded histories - thank you Pliny!
We will walk (sometimes crawl, sometimes run) through the process including all the following:
• Ideal Fabric Selection for this process and Scouring fabrics that require it
• Creating Blocks for printing using a range of materials - foam, wood, rubber, linoleum, etc
• Discussion and review of tools and supplies required for block printing on fabrics
• Mixing and blending of mordant print mediums
• Creating Print Pads to easily reapply print medium to blocks
• Stretching and Preparing fabrics and workspaces for printing
• Practice printing pastes onto fabric
• Drying, aging and rinsing of fabrics
• Immersion dyeing textiles
• Treatments for fabric to restore pH, provide wash fastness and UV shielding to add longevity for the print
I’m excited to share the years of process refinement that I’ve made as a result of working through countless mistakes. I’ve learned a lot of lessons the hard way and I’m happy to show you the paths around the numerous obstacles inherent to block printing with natural dyes!
Over the past year I’ve endeavored to hone this process, and have immersed myself in working with many different print mediums and block materials. Special consideration will be given in the class to working with Linoleum and rubber carved block surfaces.
All fabrics and materials are provided.
Rainbow Shibori In One Day
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, LA CA 90026
Sunday, November 17 2024 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, January 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday, February 22, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Limited to 8 Attendees
No experience necessaryIn this workshop, we’ll explore working with Indigo blue and the mordant dyes madder red and weld yellow.
We will layer these three primary color dyes on top of each other in order to create MANY different tones on a single piece of fabric - Grass green, plum, maroon, forest green, oranges and auburns.
All materials and supplies are provided. You’ll leave with at least two small square scarves dyed in your choice of color and pattern.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham and plaid looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
This is a good-times introduction to a range of natural dye plants and processes!
Please contact me if you have any questions.
Indigo Shibori Workshop
Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, January 11, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
Saturday, April 19, 2025 from 1:00 to 4:30 PM
All experience levels welcome and all materials are provided! No previous dye or textile background necessary.
This is an introduction to Indigo - the plant, they dye and the process! In the cozy studio in Silver Lake, we’ll explore the possibilities of dip-dyeing in the indigo vat with a focus on creating patterns using folds and clamps.
I’ll guide you through the best practices for preparing fabrics for dyeing, from fabric selection, to washing, scouring and post-dyeing treatment that will give your dyed goods the longest life possible!
We will discuss the process for extracting color from plants with as much show-and-tell as possible. From there we will mix up an indigo vat and I’ll demonstrate (and you’ll practice) dipping fabric into the vat in a way that allows for good color uptake and long health of the vat. We will fold and clamp a couple different pieces of fabric and then dip them into the indigo vat. From there we’ll discuss wash and aftercare options for your dyed goods, before sending you on your way with your newly dyed fabrics!
I’ve been working with indigo plants, pigment and pattern for the past fifteen years and I love to share my experiences. If you’ve done any indigo work in the past and have questions or observations that you’re curious about, please bring your questions and any material samples you’d like to share and I’d be happy to discuss them in the class.
Pattern is my speciality and I’ll be sharing the following base-folds which can be combined and modified to create infinite repeat graphics
• STRIPE - fat lines, skinny lines, pinstripes and gingham looks all originate from this one simple fold.
• GRID - ideal for lattices, zigzags and repeating dots or Moroccan tile looks.
• KIKKO - a hexagonal tessellation
• WEDGE - a radial fold perfect as a base for star and floral shapes
Make sure to show up wearing clothes and shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting some splashes of blue on!
Additional fabric, dyeing supplies, soaps and seeds are available for purchase at the shop before or after class.
As always, if you’re interested in attending as a photographer or videographer, I have complimentary spots available if you’re willing to share the images with me for use on my instagram, website or promotion for future classes. I can never get it together to teach and document the classes at the same time!
Foundations of Natural Dye Print Design Series (5 of 5)
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking over 5 consecutive Tuesday evenings in the fall of 2023
Red and White Shibori Dyeing for Furoshiki Gift Wrapping
Sunday, December 15, 2024 1-4:30PM
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90026
Learn how to create repeat folded patterns using Madder root - a natural red dye!
Ditch the single-use wrapping paper and come get in the holiday spirit with Graham and Auri!
In this afternoon workshop we will explore the method of itajime shibori - using folding, clamps and wooden blocks to create patterns on fabric - all in seasonal red, pink and white coloring.
You’ll leave the class with two furoshiki, square pieces of fabric that can be used (and reused!) to wrap holiday gifts! After making our fabrics, we’ll practice wrapping a few different styles of gifts and boxes with them.
• Learn to prepare fabric for natural dyeing
• Learn to work with home-grown Madder Root and Madder Extract - a beautiful, natural red color!
• Practice folding, clamping, dipping and dyeing fabrics in a plethora of forms to control the patterns we create.
• All materials provided!
Indigo Furoshiki - Dyeing and Using Gift Wrapping Cloths
604 N. Occidental Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90026
1:00 to 4:30 PM, Saturday December 14, 2024
In this workshop we will explore decorating two lovely, square pieces of fabric about 27x27” that can be used and used again as gift wrapping for the holidays (or any days)! After dyeing the materials, we will practice different methods for folding and wrapping packages and gifts of different shapes and sizes.
• learn the basics of indigo dyeing such as mixing up a vat, proper dipping etiquette and washing suggestions
• explore different styles of creating graphic patterns on the fabric through folding, clamping or binding
• we will cover AT LEAST 4 major fold styles - Stripes, Grids, Kikko (hexagons) and Radial (flower and star shapes)
• we will present many different ways to fold, tie and use the wrapping cloths as a beautiful gift wrappig
• practice using your cloth as a wrapping for gifts between the sizes of a baseball to a shoebox - works great for bottles of wine - or even indigo dye kits :)
Foundations of Natural Dye Print Design Series (4 of 5)
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking over 5 consecutive Tuesday evenings in the fall of 2023
STUDIO SALE
Winter Studio Sale
Art! Natural-Dyed Wares! Make n’take! Mocktail bar by Bar NUDA
Featuring
Graham Keegan, Current Shapes, Plant Friends, Bridget Thompson Studio, Brown Pigeon, Trash Gurl Treasures and Julka Ossola Ceramics
Foundations of Natural Dye Print Design Series (3 of 5)
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking over 5 consecutive Tuesday evenings in the fall of 2023
Foundations of Natural Dye Print Design Series (2 of 5)
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking over 5 consecutive Tuesday evenings in the fall of 2023
Rainbow Shibori In One Day
This workshop taught by Graham Keegan covers the creation of pattern on fabric using a technique of folding and clamping fabric before immersing the pieces into various infusions of natural dye plants including madder, weld and indigo. The results are vibrant and joyful, often surprising patterns.
Indigo & Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Let me introduce you to Indigo : a plant, a pigment and a process dear to my heart. We’ll begin the day with white fabric and end with your own beautiful blue patterned creations.
Foundations of Natural Dye Print Design Series (1 of 5)
Graham Keegan will be teaching a course on natural dye printmaking over 5 consecutive Tuesday evenings in the fall of 2023
In Praise of Persimmon
Persimmon Preserving and Natural Dye Workshop - Come learn to make dried fruits, vinegar and a wonderful natural dye all from the same fruit - the Hachiya Persimmon
Natural Dyeing Practices
At John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina
Graham Keegan will teach a week-long class with the specific focus of establishing and enriching your own natural dye practice. In this course, big concepts in dyeing will be discussed such as plant identification and cultivation, chemical reactions and fiber types, as well as minutiae regarding pot shapes, stirring gestures and studio layout - as well as everything in between. Come enjoy autumn in Appalachia and explore the garden and grounds of the Folk School with an eye for dye!
PRINT THE WORD!
PRINT YOUR MESSAGE! Join Graham Keegan at his workshop in Los Angles where you will block print letters using natural dyes. It will be a fun, lovely evening of typesetting and printmaking on fabric.
Indigo & Shibori Natural Dye Workshop
Let me introduce you to Indigo : a plant, a pigment and a process dear to my heart. We’ll begin the day with white fabric and end with your own beautiful blue patterned creations.