A Study in Color: An Introduction to Natural Dyeing 2026

Class Time: Sunday, April 26, 2026 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM with 1 hour break

Location: St. Louis Community College - Meramec Campus, 11333 Big Bend Road, Kirkwood, MO 63122. Check in at Registration 15 minutes prior to class starting at PE Building for location.

Room: Science South, Room 106

CONTACT NOTE: Failure to provide your email address and/or opt out of marketing updates will result in no communication from the Festival about updates or from your  instructor. Our system does not permit us to reach you through other means. If you choose to decline and do not provide an email address, please ensure that all necessary details have been noted down.

The class fee includes admission to the Vendor Marketplace every day of the festival; April 24 - 26, 2026.

Instructor: Gina Levesque w/ Across Generations

Enter the dye laboratory, dear investigators, and prepare to uncover the centuries-old secrets behind natural color. In this introductory workshop, we will follow the clues left by ancient cultures, early artisans, and Native American dyers as we explore traditional methods that have shaped textiles for more than 500 years.

Students will examine the crucial distinction between dyes and stains, unravel the mysteries behind mordants and assists, and learn how these chemicals influence the final shades that emerge from the dye pot. Along the way, we will delve into the historical significance of classic dyes - madder, osage orange, black walnut, cochineal, logwood, black oak, alkanet, and others, each with its own intriguing story and cultural legacy.

Throughout the investigation, you will build your own dye notebook and create a ring of wool sample swatches documenting every color and process. While we will primarily work with 100% wool yarn in class, participants are encouraged to bring small samples of their own materials, cotton, reeds, additional animal fibers—to briefly test in the communal dye pots.

Those wishing to continue their experiments at home may bring milk jugs or jars to collect the remaining exhaust baths. Please wear older clothing or an apron, as dye work has a habit of leaving evidence behind.

Join us as we analyze, experiment, and unlock the chromatic mysteries hidden in Nature’s palette!

Skill Prerequisite: None.

Ages: High School, Adult

Supplies: Included in Class Cost

• Binder Notebook
• Plants
• Wool yarn

Additional Supplies Needed

• Participants are encouraged to bring small samples of their own art medium (cotton, reed, other types of animal fibers) to drop into dye pots.
• Participants may bring milk jugs or jars to collect the remaining exhaust baths if they wish to experiment at home.

Homework: None.

Class Policies

• The class minimum is 3 students. If we are unable to fill these spots, we will cancel the class and provide a full refund.
• By signing up for this class, you have admission to Friday Night Vendor Marketplace Preview.
• If a class is sold out, click here to be placed on the Wait List.
• No refunds will be issued after April 1, 2026.
  
• For any cancellations prior to April 1, 2026, a $25 administrative fee will be assessed.