Learn how to extract color from plants! This class will cover the basics of natural dyeing. Participants will learn about the different kinds of natural fibers and how to prepare them for dyeing, as well as learn to identify several dye plants that are easy to grow or collect in the wild. We will use these plants to create dyes with which we can experiment using different mordants, over-dyeing and resist techniques on various fibers. Yarn and fabric swatches for dyeing will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring a notebook in which to record their process and results.

Nicole Campanale began her training in art and gardening over 10 years ago. She received a BFA from Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, where she studied weaving and natural dyeing. Gardening was a summer job that turned into an enduring love of plants. Over the past 10 years Nicole has taught natural dyeing and other fibers classes in local schools and children's programs. She has worked with several of the area’s most accomplished gardeners in public and private gardens and continues to work locally as a gardener and garden designer. She has a studio in New Marlborough where she grows dye plants and designs and creates textile goods using natural dyes.