The fun and creative workshop gives participants opportunity to express themselves through creating own unique designs, patterns and shapes on fabric, using different colour mixtures and dyes. A range of complex Afro-centric patterns can be achieved. For example, zig-zag lines might suggest lightning, snakes, water, fire or the mane of horses, antelopes, etc. A circled dot often refers to the sun as a source of great vitality Read More.
African Tie and Dye
Workshop will enable participants to explore traditional and modern techniques of tie and dye making. They will be introduced to the role and functions of the different materials needed for making a finished product i.e. dyes, urea and salt. The primary colours of Red, Yellow and Blue dyes, which traditionally were extracted from the roots, stems, bark, leaves, flowers and fruits of many different plants, will also be introduced to them. Participants will learn how to mix the colours and tie the material using strings or rubber bands, to achieve different effects, shapes and patterns.
Benefits include enhanced:
- Knowledge and understanding of primary colours and mixing techniques;
- Knowledge of the science of tie and dye making i.e. adding urea and salt to dyes;
- Understanding of material folding techniques to achieve desired effects;
- Ability to produce creative work that communicates ideas, feelings, etc.;
- Understanding of the historical, cultural and contemporary contexts of tie and dye making;
- Confidence and creative skills, especially for participants with learning disabilities.
