ECO PRINTING ON SILK AND WATERCOLOR PAPER WORKSHOP

Eco Printing is a natural dyeing process technique that uses leaves and other plant materials to create patterns and colors on fabrics and paper. The process involves bundling plant materials together with fabric. By steaming or boiling the bundle in water it will transfer the color and patterns from the plant to the fabric. The exact method and materials used can vary depending on the artist, but the result is a unique, one-of-a kind print that captures the beauty of nature. It also allows artists to work in harmony with the seasons, using materials that are grown, found, shared, or responsibility foraged.

Eco Printing not only links contemporary fiber art to respect for natural environments, but also to the recovery of lost dye and plant knowledge. This process yields an appreciation for the creative process from the heart.

Eco Printing is a newer technique that has developed in recent years. The most distinguishing feature of eco printing is the use of renewable and sustainable natural materials, which results in each print being unique and that cannot be reproduced.

The plant type, leaf age, and mordanting procedure determines the patterns and hues obtained. Eco printing is a rewarding creative process that allows you to connect with your natural environment and learn more about local flora.

In this Hands-On-Workshop you will be introduced to the art of Eco Printing. With this printing process you will create your own beautiful eco printed silk scarf and prints on watercolor paper featuring leaves that you can bring to class and/or also choose from an array of leaves and meadow cuttings that will be available. For the best leaves to forage locally are maple, oak, chestnut, autumn olive, ferns and rose leaves. Eucalyptus leaves are also excellent to print with and there will be a variety to choose from at the class. The watercolor paper you print can become a framed piece or use them to make greeting cards, bookmarks, or journals. We will also discuss the use of natural dye “blanket barriers “to create colorful backgrounds.

Artist and workshop instructor Christine Jonson is a creative person. A professional clothing designer and technical apparel pattern maker by trade, her interests include jewelry design, enameling, and creating large-scale copper flower sculptures. She unexpectedly ran into Eco Printing less than a year ago and has been addicted ever since. Creating botanical textiles brings together her love and appreciation of nature with her eye for design and love of fabrics. She will bring an array of wall hangings and scarves for you to see and touch as inspiration!

All skill levels are welcome and supplies included!

Instructor: Christine Johnson

Date: June 9th, 2024

Time: 10am-3pm

Cost: $75 per student

Ages: 16 & up