Indigo Shibori

Instructor: Suzanne Connors 

Saturday, August 26

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  

Adult 18+ 

All levels are welcome. No experience required. 

Shibori (meaning "to wring, squeeze or press") is an ancient Japanese indigo dyeing technique that produces interesting patterns. Surrounded by magic, mystery, and folklore, discover how the leaves of the indigo plant ‘make blue’ and the complex chemistry of a successful vat was celebrated throughout history. Gain the context to appreciate this craft's historic significance and the skills to continue practicing at home. Handouts and resource information is provided. Finished projects include several napkin-sized samples, and a scarf or a t-shirt. * Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes suitable for messy dyeing.

There will be a 30-minute lunch break. Bring a sack lunch or explore local dining options. 

A materials kit Fee of $25 PAYABLE TO THE INSTRUCTOR  at the time of the workshop provides Indigo, with everything necessary to make vats, shibori resist items, and four cotton napkins for dying. 

*Payment by cash or check is required for materials fees.  

 Student Supply List: 

PRE-SCOUR ALL fabrics before bringing to class (wash in hot water with mild soap and boil for 20-30 minutes). https://www.ayafiberstudio.com/scouring-fabrics-1 

During this workshop, we will create samples - you may use well-scoured second-hand fabrics, one piece of clothing, or a yard of fabric (100% cotton or silk).

• One pair of new, long rubber dishwashing gloves 
• A seam-picker or a small pair of sharp scissors 
• Note-taking materials (optional) 
• Apron  (optional)

Suzanne Connors has always loved art and textiles and has maintained an active fiber art studio since 2008. Her academic background in architecture and design lays the groundwork for her practice using traditional shibori techniques. Creating a body of detailed design, establishing order, combining simple techniques and textures and using design repetition are the foundations of her work. Suzanne enjoys sharing her passion for texture, color, and pattern through her artwork and while teaching workshops. 

Suzanne’s teaching experience includes studio and professional practices at institutions throughout the U.S.  

These include The Arrowmont School of Art & Craft, (Gatlinburg, TN,) River Ridge Retreat Center, (Menominee, WI,) Carborro Art Center, (Carborro, NC,) Morakami Japanese Museum, (Palm Beach County, FL,) Foosaner Museum, (Melbourne, FL,) Lighthouse Art Center, (Tequesta, FL) and the Aya Fiber Studio; her own studio in Stuart Florida where she hosts national and international artists who give workshops to over 500 students from all over the country each year. Suzanne is the founder and past President of the Martin Artisans Guild, and is also president of Florida SPIN (silk painters international) and South Florida Regional representative for Surface Design Association.