About

Under the guidance of artist and teacher Ana Lisa Hedstrom, you will explore the creative uses of kakishibu persimmon tannin as well as direct application of thickened natural dyes and indigo, on paper and fabric substrates.

Kakishibu persimmon tannin has a long history in Japan, Korea, and China. It is a liquid made from fermented green persimmons, which can be applied to fabric, paper, or wood to create a rusty brown coating that is waterproof, an insect repellent, and, of course, beautifully decorative. The application by brush or dipping requires no chemicals or heat. Instead, the color develops in UV light. A solution of iron oxide can modify the color to shades of gray and black.

Details:

• Skill Level: Beginner to advanced
• Bring a sack lunch. BARN has a refrigerator and microwave for your use on the lower level.
• Dress for a mess - wear clothing that can get stained and/or wear an apron and bring gloves.
• Bring an N-95 mask.
• A materials fee of $35, included in the cost of the class, covers all dyes and a limited amount of fabric, along with paper and other materials needed. We will use all-natural fibers. See "Materials" below for what students can bring to class.

Details

Students may bring silk, cotton, linen, wool, etc., from their own stash for samples and scarves.

Project

Students will work on Japanese washi paper to make decorative papers suitable for book arts or collage. We will sample cotton, linen, and silk and create silk scarves.

There will be an indigo vat, and you also will learn to thicken dye extracts, which can be applied to fabric or paper by stamping or brushing.

Class Policies

• Ages 14 and up are welcome.