Indigo & Shibori 101 Workshop
Come to Rhizome DC for a hands-on introduction to indigo dyeing and Japanese shibori, the art of folding, tying, and binding cloth to create patterned designs. Participants will learn how to prepare and use an indigo vat, experiment with several shibori techniques, and care for their naturally dyed textiles.
Each participant will receive a bandana to dye, and all other workshop materials are provided. The class is led by Sophie Kanter, a natural-dye artist whose practice centers on locally foraged and seasonal dye plants, sustainability, traditional crafts, and slow fashion.
When: Sunday, October 18, 2026
Showtimes: The event schedule lists 12:00 PM–2:00 PM. The listing also describes the workshop as taking place at 1 PM.
Venue: Rhizome DC, in the backyard
Tickets: $15–25
Workshop content: Participants will learn the fundamentals of making and dyeing with indigo, including preparing an indigo vat, tying or folding fabric to create a range of shibori patterns, and caring for indigo-dyed items.
Materials: One bandana is included for each participant, and all other workshop materials are provided. Attendees may bring a few additional items from home to dye; small- to medium-sized pieces made with at least 50% natural fibers are recommended.
What to bring: Wear clothing that can get stained. An apron and rubber gloves are recommended if available.
Instructor: Sophie Kanter, a natural-dye artist and educator. She began working with natural dyes in 2014 and later studied indigo, textiles, and natural dyeing through craft and folk schools and the San Francisco Bay Area textile community.
Instructor background: Kanter draws inspiration from the natural world, traditional crafts, and slow fashion. Much of her work uses dye plants gathered from the local landscape, with colors changing according to the season. Her interest in natural dyes grew from experimenting with stained clothing and expanded into work with many kinds of fabrics and plants. She also teaches at a Montessori school and enjoys baking, caring for houseplants, spending time outdoors, and making crafts with friends.