Rice Paste Resist with Indigo

In this class, we take our inspiration from katazome, a Japanese printmaking technique using sticky rice paste and hand-cut stencils to create vibrant patterns on cloth. We will discuss the traditional methods of making katazome prints, and present some modern techniques that can be used in a home studio. Students will have the opportunity to create their own simple stencils, use existing stencils, and will be encouraged to experiment with other methods of applying rice paste on cloth. We will go through the process together: making our natural indigo vat and discussing the chemistry involved, fabric selection and preparation, preparing a printing surface, rice paste making and application, and post-dye fabric treatment. Students will be provided with cloth to print and dye. This class is suitable for all experience levels.

Skills and Techniques:

• Making and maintaining a natural indigo vat and understanding the chemistry involved
• Making sticky rice paste and various methods of application
• Selecting and preparing suitable fabric, as well as making and applying post-dye treatments
• Creating simple stencils, using multiple stencils together for various effects
• Making print boards

Materials Fee: $20 paid directly to the instructor.

Special Tools or Equipment: Notebook, pen or pencil.

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