Traditional Katazome Rice Paste Resist

The traditional Japanese art of katazome is a centuries-old art form. Kata means stencil and zome is a form of the word someru, which means to dye- hence katazome (stencil dyeing).

The basic process of stencil dyeing is not complicated. First, a stencil is cut and placed on a piece of fabric. Next, the resist paste is applied through the stencil. The stencil is then removed, and the pasted fabric is allowed to dry in the sunlight. Fabric is then treated with soy sizing if going to be dyed with pigments. The Fabric is then indigo dyed or the color pigments brushed on. Finally, the fabrics are soaked in water to remove the paste.

The steps of katazome must be followed in sequence, and timing is essential. During this workshop, we will work through each of the steps. Along the way, we will discuss traditional materials, and we will also explore contemporary alternatives for use in a home studio. We will learn how to build and balance a natural indigo vat and create layered patterns with various shades of blue on cotton and linen. Students who have some dyeing or printmaking experience will enhance their practice, and beginners will get a valuable introduction.

This is an all levels workshop and no previous experience is required.

Materials Fee: Roughly $80 kit fee paid directly to the instructor. Exact cost is subject to material price at time of workshop. Kit includes supplies pre-ordered from Japan, and every effort is made to use traditional supplies. Student Kit includes: Exacto knife, punch, Japanese Tenugi fabric, traditional katagami persimmon stencil paper and silk gauze.

The  instructor will bring supplies for the indigo vat, shensi  sticks, supplies to make traditional  rice paste,  pre-mixed  paste  from  Japan, luon boards,  paints,  and  supplies  to  reinforce students’ cut stencils.  She will also bring some of her own stencil collection.

The instructor will also have additional materials for sale such as persimmon paper.

Special Tools or Equipment to bring: an apron, long kitchen gloves, an Exacto knife, punch kit (instructor will supply source as class is closer) and extra blades.

Workshop and Cancellation Policies: Please be sure to read our 2026 policies before you register for a workshop: https://www.sanbornmills.org/workshop-policies/