analog making in a modern world
Natural dyeing is a relatively straightforward process, but without an understanding of what goes on at each step, the whole ordeal can seem a bit like potion making: add this salt here, stir there, and hope for the best. Dyeing feels all the more like wizardry when plants impart surprising colors. The pink is from… Continue reading The Why’s of Natural Dyes
The natural world is abundant in color. It doesn't take long to discover that so many of the organisms we see every day can impart pigment across the whole spectrum. In fact, it may become challenging to go outside, just for the sheer distraction of fennel here, sourgrass there, oak galls left and right! Evernia prunastri… Continue reading Gathering Dyestuffs
Humans are exceptionally visual organisms. We are rare among mammals to have retinas more specialized for distinguishing color than for light and dark, and the limited band of the electromagnetic spectrum called visible light yields us an ability to discern our surroundings through color, texture, and shadow. Top: yarn dyed with avocado skins and pits.Bottom:… Continue reading The Science and Art of Natural Dyes
Frolicking in Fiber 