April 2018 - Tie Dye Procion Taster Day with Clare from 'Colourcraft'

We met in April eager to play with the products brought by Clare from 'Colourcraft'.

During the notices, we were informed that there are a few places left at summer school for the felting course, and were given instructions about who to contact if we were interested, it was then on to the dyeing and painting.

We began in the morning by using ready prepared transfer dyes, painting them onto sheets of plain white paper. We were encouraged to try many colours, shapes and patterns. There was a real buzz in the room as everyone got busy. Punches could also be used to cut out different patterns and shapes. Once finished the papers were left to dry to be used after lunch.

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After a good clean up we were given four pieces of pre-treated plain cotton. The fabric had been pre-soaked in a mix of soda ash and water. It was then allowed to dry.
Everyone was given instructions on how to fold and tie their fabric. This was quite tricky, and an extra pair of hands would have been useful.

As usual there were many members ‘doing their own thing’ in the back room and potential new members put at ease with the chatter and laughter. Thanks also go to the ladies who are always manning the shop, library and door.

Following lunch Clare gave us instructions on the use of Procion dyes, which are used on natural fibres and fabrics. It is necessary to use protective clothing and rubber gloves when working with these dyes. Using the dyes ready prepared for us by Clare, we applied them to achieve the different effects. These were then placed in a plastic bag and left to develop for 24 hours. They would be rinsed until water was clear, then washed at 30ºC and dried at home.

Synthetic pieces of fabric were then distributed to everyone to use with our transfer dyed papers. We were directed to cut out shapes and patterns from our designs, place them on the fabric, design side down and put a sheet of baking parchment over the top. Then using a hot iron, heat till the desired effect was achieved. A smooth flat iron was essential. The longer the iron was left in place the brighter the print.

Throughout the day purses and cheque books kept opening as products from the 'Colourcraft' shop flew off the stall.

​A good creative day was had by all, and we thanked Clare for a great day.
K.R.