Botanical Dyeing with Igora Opala | SEPPELTSFIELD

JamFactory Barossa:
Workshops at Seppeltsfield Estate

An eco-printing technique that utilises plant materials as natural dyes, botanical printing offers an enchanting and immersive creative experience. Under the guidance of textile artist Igora Opala, participants will learn how to use direct contact printing to draw pigments from various botanicals, creating unique imprints on natural fabrics such as silk, wool, cotton and linen. 

Participants will be guided through the process of composing, preparing and printing their own designs from provided plant materials, and learn the crucial role of mordants in forming chemical links between fibre and colourant to create long-lasting colour, before applying these skills to dye two silk scarves in their own designs.

The potential for botanical printing is vast, with countless possible variations based on the choice of flora, mordants and extraction methods; students will be encouraged to explore and uncover hidden colours, forms and textures throughout the process. Students will complete the workshop with a selection of sample fabrics and two silk scarves (28x150cm and 35x180cm).

This workshop is suitable for complete beginners. All printing tools and materials will be supplied including a range of botanicals to use, a range of small fabric pieces for printing and silk to create two scarves; participants are welcome to bring in sample fabric and/or small textile items in natural fibres (silk or wool recommended) and botanicals to experiment with if they wish.

Please bring:

• Apron and a pair of latex or rubber gloves
• Please wear enclosed footwear and comfortable clothing that you can get a little messy in.
• Plant material from your garden and any small pieces of fabric in natural fibres that you wish to print with (optional).

Igora Opala

Igora is the felt designer and fabric artist behind IgoraDesign label, with extensive experience as a teacher, workshop facilitator and mentor. Her diverse portfolio of creative work blends organic elements with tactile artistry, and speaks to her connection to the natural environment and the sharing of stories through fabric as a medium.

General information on our short course requirements, facilities and refund policy can be found here