I had the pleasure of taking an indigo dye and shibori workshop with Folk Fibers owner, Maura Ambrose.
photo by Maura Ambrose
I have long been a lover of dying fabrics, experimenting with creating my own muted version of tie-dye (no primary colors). I found that I like using the natural dye indigo makes much better and left this experience completely inspired.
Luckily, this workshop was in my own backyard (aka Austin, Texas), but I met several ladies who traveled across the country to be there.
Maura taught us about drying indigo leaves to create a dye bath. It is quite laborious and must be tended to often.
She also shared several shibori techniques, some of which I had already been using in my own dye projects without even knowing!
Of course I learned much more and can’t wait to use my newly acquired skill set.
I love hands-on workshops, where you are visually taught the techniques and then have the chance to use them on your own. In school I always did better in the lab, versus the lecture. I like to get my hands dirty. I learn better through experience.
student work
a couple of my pieces
Maura is just as sweet as you would imagine her to be, as is her husband, Chap. The workshop flew by and we were there well after it was supposed to be over.
She offered a tour of her studio and being in her space is so inspiring. If you haven’t seen her quilting work, get ready to be blown away. She is supremely talented and follows her passion with enthusiasm. It is palpable.
May your journey be your muse,
Rachel