Maximum Resist Indigo Shibori

Explore a unique grouping of shibori techniques that maximize shibori’s resist. Instead of flooding fabric with indigo, backgrounds are reserved to showcase diverse patterns. These techniques are not commonly grouped in a single workshop. Stitched fabric bound to rope creates elegant yanagi (willow) and midori (willow leaf). Stitching bound to a pvc pipe becomes delicate shirokage (white shadow) or energetic hinode (sunrise variations). And bold sekka (snow flower) patterns rely on blocks. Unique reverse patterns include tako boshi (octopus capping), hasu ami (diamond net) on pvc pipe, and reverse looped binding (ura miura) on rope. These are just a few of the many possibilities. All levels are welcome. The focus will be on creating samples that can be used in quilting or clothing, but dyeing scarves, garments, etc., is optional toward the end of the week.

If you are new to shibori, it is an ancestor of tie-dye that is found in many cultures around the world under various labels. Since at least the 8th century, Japanese dyers have developed seemingly endless pattern variations. These variations are created using techniques that shape and put pressure on the fabric to control the penetration of the dye. Categories include binding, pleating, stitching & gathering, capping, clamping, and wrapping rope or poles. After dyeing, the fabric is opened out and the pattern is revealed.

Why does indigo seem magical? Because it dates back to ancient Egypt? Because it’s blue only develops on contact with air? Because successive dipping makes the blue seem like many colors?  It’s magical because it’s the perfect partner to shibori. Shibori and indigo dyeing have brought out the best in each other for centuries.

We’ll delve into this amazing relationship, exploring techniques across many categories, with a focus on those that maintain an expanse of background white (or color if you begin with a solid hue) while creating indigo patterns that range from delicate to bold.

Skills and Techniques:

• Pleating & Binding on Rope Core: Tesuji, Yanagi, Midori
• Arashi/Pole Wrapping: Pleating Techniques
• Arashi Reverse Diamond Net: Hasu Ami
• Stitching: Ori Nui (on fold)Hishaki Nui (away from fold)
• Stitching with Pole or Rope Core : Hinode/Sunrise, Miscellaneous Shapes
• Stitching with Pole: Shirokage (White Shadow)
• Knotting: Te-Kumo Variations (spider webs) & Dip Dyeing
• Pleating & Stitching
• Capping: Boshi and Tako (octopus) Boshi
• Using blockers to maintain backgrounds

Materials Fee:
$10 – $15 Paid directly to the instructor. Fee covers:
Crochet thread, Aunt Lidia’s Fashion 3 =
Masking tape, Scotch #2020 Contractor Grade
Duct Tape, 3M #2400 Series No Residue
Yasutomo Nori Paste
Handouts
Pre-Reduced Indigo, Thiox, Soda Ash, Thiox, Ivory Soap, Vinegar

Special Tools or Equipment:

Fabric
3-4 yds of washed, untreated, white 100% cottons. Recommended: Dharma Trading https://www.dharmatrading.com/fabric/cotton/cotton-fabrics.html print cloth (medium weight fabrics) and cotton lawn (gauzy fabrics). I also buy print cloth from Testfabric (#1403002). PFD or mercerized is best.

For optional experimentation Sanborn Mills Farm has a small inventory of Maiwa and Dharma Trading fabrics including cotton, silk, and linen that can be purchased in the studio. Or feel free to bring your own experimental fabric.

For Stitching
Thread: stronger than regular sewing thread, Button & Carpet, Upholstery, etc.
Sewing needles (large enough for the above), thimble if you use one (recommended)
Straight pins, a few safety pins
Embroidery sized scissors with pointed blades (not your best) or thread snips

For Poles
(PVC pipes: some will be available for distant travelers; if you are driving or local please bring some)
3” diameter x 24” length

Optional: 4” x 24” and 2” x 24.” Extra pipes on hand will give you more opportunities to experiment. SMF has a variety of lengths and diameters to play with.

For Clamping and Rope Binding
C-Clamp 3” opening, plus larger if on hand.

For Capping & Knotting
Some gallon baggies
A few corks
Waxed dental floss (any flavor, NOT Glide)

A soft pencil
(Optional) A notebook

Workshop Policies:Please be sure to read our 2025 policies before you register for a workshop which can be found here Workshop Policies