Natural Plant Dyeing with Woad
NATURAL PLANT DYEING WITH WOAD
We are delighted to be hosting another Natural Dyeing Demonstration at Knockando Woolmill this time using Woad.
Dyeing with woad is a fascinating process as the colour only fully appears when the dye reacts with oxygen. In the vat, the liquid may look yellow-green at first, but once the fabric is lifted out and exposed to air, a chemical change begins and the blue color develops before your eyes. This oxidation process is what makes woad dyeing so magical, as repeated dips and air exposure can deepen the shade from pale blue to rich indigo. It also means that timing and handling are important, since the fabric needs enough contact with oxygen for the colour to transform properly.
Thursday, 27th August, 10am–4pm
Free drop-in session
Join us for a day at the Mill, where you can see the process of natural dyeing in action.
Activities include:
- Preparing wool for dyeing and measuring dye materials
- Scouring the wool with detergent
- Creating dye baths from woad and controlling the PH
- Experimenting with exposure times
You’ll also have the chance to see the results of our previous dye batches using nettles and Lady’s Bedstraw.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Mill!
