Seamless watercolor Japanese indigo pattern in shibori style. [Sveta Aho]
The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is presenting a class called “Shibori Indigo,” where attendees can learn about aizome, the indigo dyeing process, and shibori, the ancient art of resist dyeing, and can create a shibori scarf.
Shibori Indigo — Scarf
Date: Dec. 14
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $75, advance registration required
Aizome is a centuries-old craft renowned for its rich, deep-blue hues and cultural significance. Derived from the leaves of the indigo plant, aizome is deeply rooted in Japanese history, fashion and art, symbolizing purity, protection and enduring beauty.
The process of aizome is meticulous, blending nature, chemistry and craftsmanship. It begins with cultivating indigo plants, which are harvested, dried and fermented to produce sukumo, a natural indigo dye paste. The dye is then prepared in vats through a fermentation process that transforms the paste into a water-soluble solution. This traditional method, tade-ai, relies on natural materials like lye, bran and sake to create the dye, reflecting Japan’s deep connection to the environment.
Artisans dip fabric, threads or garments into the dye vat multiple times, allowing oxidation to deepen the blue color with each exposure to air. The process requires patience and precision, as variations in dipping time, fabric type and drying conditions create different gradients and patterns. Such techniques as shibori (tie-dye) and katazome (stencil dyeing) further enhance the artistic possibilities, resulting in intricate designs that embody the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.
In this workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to create your own shibori scarf, using traditional methods to produce stunning patterns. This hands-on experience allows you to connect with the rich history of Japanese textile arts.
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