Natural Dye Interest Group

In this study group, we will be learning about some of the local dye mushrooms and lichens of Western North Carolina. The first part of the workshop will be dedicated to foraging, mushroom ID, and natural dyeing basics. In the second part of the study group, we will actually get the chance to dye some fabric with local mushrooms and lichens!

Attendees will learn

~ How to forage mushrooms safely
~ How to prepare a simple dye bath for any foraged mushroom
~ Specific methods for commonly-used dyeing species
~ A general, basic knowledge of how to mordant and dye wool!

Take-home items

Attendees will leave with a few pieces of mushroom-dyed fiber, as well as a paper on how to identify and prepare a few local dye species.

Bring some hand work to work on while the fiber is in th epot and any show and tell that you would like to share.