This is not only a colorful and productive workshop in which middle schoolers get to dive into dyeing, artistic expression and holiday gifts. It is also educational as we talk about the chemical reaction that takes place between the Fiber Reactive MX Dyes and the sodium carbonate mordant which creates a physical bond between plant based fiber and colorful dyes.

But mostly, it will be fun! Workshop participants are welcome to bring several white cotton t-shirts to dye. They might also want purchase white silk scarves at the workshop to dye for parents, grandparents, teachers or other special family members and friends.

In the dye workshop we will begin with primary hues and discuss how colors are created when 2 or 3 dye colors come together in a single dye formula. (What combination of dye makes emerald green? What if we don't want emerald, but would rather create forest green or olive? How do we adjust the basic colors to create 10 or 20 other subtly new shades?) We will pour and paint and scrunch and squirt. Wear old clothes!

What To Bring

• $15 for workshop fee and dyes.
• Three plastic quart containers. These can be leftover yogurt or deli containers (with lids if possible). If you don't have access to recycled 1 quart plastic containers, you can purchase light weight, disposable containers at the grocery store. (Keep in mind that after a tool is used while dyeing, it cannot be used again in food prep.)
• Items to dye: Up to 6 prewashed cotton t-shirts. White or light colors. These can be new or from the clothing stash. (Do not use softener sheets after washing t-shirts. The chemicals from the sheets might interfere with the dye process.)
• Optional: Bring $6 per 14"x72" silk scarf. These are fully hemmed silk scarves that dye beautifully in rich, deep colors.