Indigo & Shibori 101 Workshop

This hands-on workshop teaches participants how to create and use an indigo dye vat, combined with traditional Japanese shibori (tie-dye) techniques for producing beautiful patterns. Led by instructor Sophie Kanter, the class begins with the science and practice of making an indigo vat and achieving long-lasting color on fabric. Students then learn how to fold, bind, and clamp cloth to create a variety of resist patterns before dipping. Each participant receives one bandana to dye, and all other materials are provided. Attendees may also bring a few additional small-to-medium items from home, provided they are made of 50% or more natural fiber (cotton, linen, silk, wool). They should wear clothing they don’t mind staining and are welcome to bring an apron and rubber gloves. The session also covers aftercare for indigo-dyed items. This workshop is appropriate for beginners and anyone curious about natural dyeing and sustainable textile practices.

Instructor: Sophie Kanter, a natural dyer and educator based in the Washington, D.C. area. She runs the studio The Bluest I, and her practice focuses on local and seasonal dye plants, many of which she forages from the surrounding landscape. Kanter has studied at craft and folk schools across the country, with a particular emphasis on indigo and natural dyes, and her work is informed by traditions of slow fashion and the cultural history of natural color. When not dyeing, she teaches at a Montessori school and enjoys baking, house plants, and outdoor crafts.

When: Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Tickets: $15 to $25, with registration available online through Rhizome DC.

Age: The workshop is open to all ages, though children should be accompanied by an adult. No prior experience is needed.

Venue: Rhizome DC, located in Washington, D.C.

Note: Participants should bring any additional items they wish to dye, as long as they are small to medium and contain at least 50% natural fibers. Aprons and rubber gloves are optional but recommended. All other supplies, including one bandana per person and indigo dye materials, are provided.