Foraging for colour - Botanical Dyeing Workshop with Derbyshire Dyer Olivia

Reconnect with your local landscape with this creative workshop led by Derbyshire Dyer Olivia. Discover the ancient colours found in hedgerows, common verges and everyday trees that would have once coloured the lives of our ancestors. During the session, Olivia will introduce you to the basic concepts of natural dyeing, showing examples of the array of beautiful colours nature can create. Then you will be led on a short walk through the park to collect and gather dyeing materials. Once back, you will be shown how to create a dye bath, with all the tips and tricks necessary for achieving the best colours. While the colour emerges, Olivia will guide you in using traditional Japanese stitching methods to create a beautiful pattern on a cotton purse, ready for dyeing. For those speedy crafters, there will also be the opportunity to explore eco-printing with our gathered leaves and flowers. There will be a short break while your items dye, with a chance to soak in the beautiful grounds of Clumber Park and enjoy a hot drink and cake. This will be followed by the magical reveal of your naturally-dyed creations. All materials and equipment will be provided. The workshop is beginner friendly and suitable for 11+. Knowledge of a simple running stitch is advised, but not necessary.