Take a Break: Try Shibori

It’s been hotter than blazes in VT. Not totally unusual for late summer, but definitely makes me want to savor every minute of warmth and daylight as I can already tell the days are getting shorter, and the nights are much cooler.  In short, it’s a good time for outdoor projects.

 

Last week was tie dying with permanent markers. This week It’s Shibori, a method of textile design that uses threads or yarn, applied by hand to bind designs through pinching, gathering and stitching fabric. The threads create a resist pattern which is revealed post dyeing. Shibori has been employed since 8th century Japan some 1,300 years ago and originated in China. There appears to be a revival of this craft using Indigo dyes.  Think of it as the much more sophisticated parent of tie dye.

 

I tried a simplified version with one of the cloth masks that I have. I did a running stitch, but made the mistake of using sharpies for the dying part. Not so much. Definitely recommend getting some dye that you immerse your project into.

 

 If you can get indigo natural dye that’s ideal, but it’s fine to use Rite Dye. However, if you want to try it right away, you can always natural dye with tea or coffee. If you want other colors, check out 4 Steps to Naturally Dyeing Fabric Using Foods.

 

For your choice of fabric, make sure it's 100% natural, such as cotton. Polyester and other synthetics don't hold the dye. 

 

This is a good tutorial on Shibori that is easy to follow and offers lots of ideas for folding. 

 

If you prefer a link that offers step by step instructions, try Shibori Dying Technique with Kids

 

 

Not interested in today’s activities, try the Take a Break Pinterest Board.