2026-06-27 Natural Dyeing with Lichen
Class Details
- Schedule: June 27 (9:00 am-5:00 pm CT)
- Location: This is an in-person class held at Vesterheim Folk Art School.
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Instructor: Jane Addams
- Level of Instruction: Open to all levels
Description
Orchil dye, a potent purple dye once used all over the world, including Norway, can be made from several species of lichen in our own backyard. Learn how to identify, ethically forage, and handle these dye lichens in our area, along with a short biology lesson about these fascinating organisms and how to work with them responsibly.
You will prepare a lichen dye extraction to take home. While the full extraction process can take several months, you will leave with knowledge of significant species, identification tools, dyed materials, and a fresh lichen extraction vat of your own. During class, students will dye silk and wool to create a dye sample card and a dyed silk scarf, and some wool as well.
Supplies
There will be a materials fee of $40 paid directly to the instructor at the start of class.
Please wear clothes that can get stained.
Enrollment Deadline
June 5, 2026