Quilt Camp Day 2

Day 2's main event was indigo dyeing.  After preparing the pot yesterday and allowing it to sit for a day, it developed the desired "bloom" on the top and was ready for use.  We had pole wrapped pieces ready and also prepped some other pieces with various methods - folds, clamped objects, banded pieces, even a folded and rolled type called "sushi".  Below is what the waiting pot looked like.  Before immersing fabric pieces, the bloom is gently skimmed off the top and set aside; it is replaced when finished with the dye pot which can be used for several days.

The prepared pieces need to be wet before placing in the pot.  Then they are carefully lowered in so as to disturb the dye as little as possible.  Items remain in the dye for 2-3 minutes and should be gently massaged while immersed so the dye penetrates all the way through.

When the pieces are lifted out they are green, but quickly turn dark blue when exposed to the air (oxidization).  It's fun to watch the color change.

 

After sitting about 15 minutes, you can dip in the dye a second time if desired, or unwrap for the big reveal.  Below are some of our results. Traditional indigo dyeing is blue and white, but we also used some previously dyed fabrics so that's why you see other colors.

A few more things from today - Sue's cyanotype print from yesterday after rinsing, and another sun print, this one done with stencils instead of plant material.