Botanical Printing on Wool, (ages 16+), Saturday, October 5, 2024

Botanical printing is a form of bundle dyeing where textiles are tightly bundled with plants and steamed; releasing naturally occurring tannins, pigments, and acids to create one-of-a-kind prints.

In this introductory class, students will learn how different mordants influence the colors produced, as well as two techniques for creating crisp prints from local foliage. Students will print a wool shawl and a piece of felt using only leaves and flowers; no dyes needed! While our bundles steam, we will look at more examples and take questions before the un-bundling and big reveal.

Some leaves and flowers that print reliably will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring their own foliage as well (not all leaves print, but a suggested list will be provided in advance).

Instructor will provide:

• Wool scarf
• Wool felt
• Process fabrics (cotton)
• Leaves & flowers
• Mordants
• Tools such as plastic sheeting, dowels, ties, towels, scissors, templates

Students are asked to bring:

• Students should wear an apron or clothes that can get dirty, and sneakers or sturdy sandals – no flip flops!
• Students should also bring rubber gloves that can come on and off
• A pen and notepad
• A basket or large shallow Tupperware.
• Students are also encouraged to bring foliage to use and share with the group (not all leaves print, but a suggested list will be provided in advance).
• As your class is scheduled over a lunch hour, we highly recommend you bring a lunch or click here to learn about local eating opportunities.

Skill Level
No experience required.

Age Requirement
Students between the ages of 10 and 16 may attend, but the student must attend with a parent or guardian. Both attendees must register and pay.

Location Details
Marine Mills Folk School
550 Pine St., Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Cost Details
Tuition: $95
Material Fee: $35
Total Cost: $130

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible!

If interested, you can find our cancellation policy here.