Over the past year, I have been exploring Shibori techniques and natural indigo dyeing. As a designer and educator this interest developed instantly and naturally for me. If you are getting serious about textiles and would like to learn more about natural indigo, I will link to all of my favorite resources at the end of this post. You may remember my post about my favorite indigo artists, many of whom I follow on Instagram. They are still a huge part of why I research indigo more deeply. I am offering private classes and workshops on the medium, I have two coming up this week, so this seemed like the perfect time to share the recipe with all of you!

While, my first few tries with indigo I used a kit containing pre-reduced indigo, I now focus on using organic indigo powder. I switched over for a couple of reasons, my top reasons are: 

• Environmental: I prefer to keep the dye-process chemical free 
• Aesthetic: I like the appearance of the natural indigo best

Here are the steps that I use to create a 123 fructose vat, based on Michel Garcia's recipe that I have read about through multiple sources. 

I hope that you will find the photos of the process, along with the recommended steps and supplies, equally helpful. 

Today, I am sharing how you can create an enthralling table-top zen garden to increase the peaceful energy of your space. Can I get an "O-mmm?" Personally, I am aiming for a mindful year ahead with lots of inspiration, workshops and our upcoming trip to Japan. This year, I will be sharing DIY projects here every Wednesday. I have done this project in the past and it became popular amongst students and adults, so I thought this was the perfect time to share it. I recommend it  for professional development workshops and corporate events. 
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First off, I'd like to share a bit of history about original Zen gardens that were created outside of temples in Kyoto during the Muromachi period. Kyoto is on our list of places to visit and we will be spending 3 days there this Spring. Zen gardens are meant to capture the essence of nature while aiding in meditation practice. Traditionally, they are dry gardens consisting mostly of rocks, gravel and sand, although some feature small plants, moss and a water feature.

Are you ready to see pics of an actual UNESCO world heritage zen garden, along with what supplies you will need to create your own miniature version? ​

Happy Friday, everybody! Today, I am thrilled to announce my upcoming workshop series for this Spring. Creative Sundays workshops are designed to unite creative people and ignite your passion, while offering an opportunity to relax and work with your hands. Without further ado, here is what I am currently offering this Spring! 

Class description: Are you curious about how to work with natural indigo dye? Would you like to learn more about the intricacies of ancient Japanese Shibori? Through private lessons, you will explore the art of Shibori in a studio setting, practice natural indigo dyeing and learn to create Itajime, Arashi, and Kumo designs native to Japan. This class is suitable for beginners to intermediate Shibori artists, especially those who have attended workshops and wish to customize their designs. You can sign-up here or contact me with any questions!

Class Description: Are you curious about how to use botanical materials, such as flowers, plants and fruits to create stunning original textiles? Do you want to learn more about essential oils and their unique properties. This workshop combines a love for natural dyeing with aromatherapy. In this half-day retreat, you will learn the basics of natural dye materials and use them to create spontaneous results. You will relax and enjoy aromatherapy as you create your own unique fragrance using essential oils with Flin Grant of the Art of Essentials. You will have the opportunity to create both a scarf and 2 aromatherapy fragrance blends. The workshop space is limited to 20 participants and you can sign-up here! 

Class Description: You will create a beautiful marbled textile print on silk just in time for Mother's Day. In this workshop, you will explore the art of Ebru marbling on silk to create the perfect Summer accessory to gift. Participants will also experiment with marbled prints on paper which result in beautiful fine art prints. Space is limited to 12 guests, and you can register here. 

I look forward to meeting you at one of these events sometime soon! The summer schedule is already in the works and will be announced shortly with an east L.A. indigo wardrobe upcycling party to benefit an environmental charity. In the meantime, please let me know, should you have any questions about upcoming events or private lessons this Spring. Have a great weekend! 

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