Learn to set up and keep an organic indigo vat in this two part, hands on class. We will explore the biochemistry of the organic vat and learn how to set up, trouble shoot, adjust and maintain your vat. Each person will create a vat that they can keep going for years. In part one we will set up the starter jar, learn about the unique requirements of the Indigo Vat and wait for it to reduce overnight. The next day we will test our vats, do some simple shibori and ombre dyeing and talk about maintenance and trouble shooting.
Level: Beginning
Students should bring: a 2 quart glass jar, a 5 gallon plastic bucket (preferably white) with a tight fitting lid (you will be transporting your vat back home so the lid needs to seal), a small jar with a tight fitting lid and 3 or 4 marbles or stones. Fabric, yarn or small items of clothing to dye. You can use any natural fiber but it should be scoured unless you have purchased "ready to dye" fiber from a dye supplier. Rubber gloves, an apron, plastic bags to take your wet fiber home.
Please email me at joycetromba@gmail.com if you have any questions about what to bring or how to scour your fiber.
Instructor will supply: Indigo, fructose, calcium hydroxide, pH paper, materials for shibori resist, handout with step by step instructions
Materials Fee: $20
Registration: Members $100 Non-members $120
Instructor: bio Joyce Tromba
