Ontario Handspinning Seminar

Diving into Natural Dyeing
Jane Steeves
Full Day

In this workshop we will create natural dye baths, discuss mordants and modifiers, and dye fibres and yarns. We will discuss local materials that can be used for natural dyes as well as more exotic materials that can be purchased. In the morning session we will mordant our fibres and yarns, and prepare the dye baths. In the afternoon session we will dye our fibre and yarns, try some colour modifiers, and discuss outcomes and best practices
The outcome of this workshop is that the attendees should have a good grasp of how to start their own natural dye process at home. They will understand what is needed to dye with natural dyes and how to do so safely. Bring spun fibre in a natural colourway. White, cream, or grey colours are best. Each skein should be a maximum 25 grams.
What to Bring
• 6-10 skeins of spun fibre (see above) • Aprons to cover clothes • Closed-toe shoes • Rubber gloves • Plastic bags • A bucket to rinse skeins
Skill Level
None Specified

Jane Steeves has been spinning for over 20 years and is a 2020 graduate of the Ontario Handspinners Certifi-cate program. As the owner of 3dogknits Fibre Arts, she teaches spinning and dyeing, as well as her "Canadian Sheep Breed Study" designed specifically for handspinners. Jane is passionate about all things wool and fibre and enjoys exploring new creative applications for these materials.