I thought it was time to explain a bit more about my Online Workshops and in particular, my upcoming Ice Dyeing Revealed. I've been asked to elaborate......
As a surface design artist, I know you love colour and pattern…don’t
we all! We understand the importance of subtle value shifts, repeating
imagery and glorious contrasts….that’s why you are so creative! But
maybe you are looking for a new method to add to your toolbox? Something
that helps you move beyond anything you could imagine…..
I have a method of dyeing that is almost like Forrest Gump…..a
surprise every time! By using ice as the carrier for dye powders you
will achieve the most incredibly amazing patterns and textures, like
nothing you’ve done before…
After this workshop you can build up a fabric inventory like no one
else, each piece of fabric will be a new creation, ready for your
artistic skills! You will be able to:
• create yardage, not just small pieces but long lengths of gorgeous fabrics
• dye coordinating patterns in different colour ways
• make home decor items, cushions wall hangings and more
• have a ready stash of fabrics for whenever you feel inspired
Doesn’t this sound wonderfully exciting? You bet! there’s a lot to be excited about!
So how does this work? Here’s a bit about
Ice Dyeing Revealed workshop:
• First, you will have access to a
password protected webpage that’s just for you. I’ll send out the
password and all the tidbits the day before the workshop begins.
• There’s a place on the webpage for you to post questions and comments and to chat with all your fellow students.
• The webpage will also have the PDF of all the class notes – download
it, print it and use it as a handy reference and reminder, it’s that
simple!
• You have the option to join a private Facebook group
that’s just for you to post pictures, see others inspiring fabrics and
much more. It’s the best and most immediate way to get together!
• You’ll be able to download the video from the webpage, it’s yours to keep forever and ever, and ever….
Wondering about the whole “online” thing? Here’s some of those
Frequently Asked Questions:
• Do I have to sign in or be at my computer at a certain time?
Nope, its all recorded before hand, you can watch it whenever you want….in your jammies with a cuppa!
• When does the workshop start and finish?
Ice Dyeing Revealed begins on the date on the webpage. I
generally close off registration one week later so that all students get
the maximum benefit from interacting with each other in the workshop
and the Facebook page.
I’ll give you a heads up when I am
closing that session of the workshop, usually 2 months from the start
date. That gives you time to download the video, just in case you
haven’t. But you’ll always be part of the Facebook group, able to see
the work from previous and future students
• How do I know what supplies I’ll need?
There’s a supply list ready for you just below, just print off and get ready.
• Where can I buy the supplies?
I’ve got a great resource list on the PDF with links to the major dye houses around the world
• Do I need previous dyeing experience?
Heck no! It’s all easy and I’ll be there to guide you through all the steps to beautiful fabrics.
• What about safety? I don’t know what I’ll need?
All the dyes and chemicals you’ll be using are safe when used in a
responsible manner. I’ll spend time showing you how to set up your
workspace and using some simple safety equipment.
What’s this
Ice Dyeing about, anyway? All fibre
reactive dyes need two things….well actually, three. First they need
fabric, well yeah! Then they need a dye activator, that’s the stuff that
make the dye permanent on the fabric. Then they need water/snow/ice to
dissolve the dye and move it onto the fabric. If you’ve dyed fabric
before, then you probably used water, right? Well, I live in Canada….the
home of eternal snows, not! My climate in southwestern British Columbia
is decidedly Mediterranean…no snow. So I have turned to ice as the next
best thing…actually I think it’s the BEST thing. The ice acts both as a
carrier of the dye powder as it melts but it also slows down and
changes the reaction time so that the dye reaches different parts of the
fabric at different times and that’s the MAGIC, folks!
In
Ice Dyeing Revealed here’s what we’ll cover:
• the dyes and chemicals that you will use
• safe studio practices, how to set up your dyeing area
• equipment such as measuring cups, colanders and more
• getting the fabric ready for dyeing
• the “magic” folding patterns – it’s all in the folding!
• dye colour choices
• setting up the fabric, the ice and the dye
• batching time – be patient, young Luke…..
• rinsing and washing your fabrics
• getting excited!
Are you ready? What's keeping you back? Just let me know....
Or SIGN UP here:
http://susanpm.com/online-workshops/
I'd love to see you in class!
