Earth Alchemy: tapping into your creative intuition to plant dye your wardrobe

Step into a creative, hands-on experience where nature becomes your palette and your clothing becomes a canvas. In this two-day workshop, you’ll transform a few beloved pieces from your closet into one-of-a-kind garments dyed with the rich colors of bark, leaves, and flowers.

We’ll begin in circle, grounding ourselves in the land and the surrounding ecosystem, taking time to slow down, connect inward, and open to inspiration. From this place, you’ll be guided to explore your creative vision- what you feel called to make, wear, and express.

Together, we’ll move through the full process of plant dyeing from intention and inspiration to the science behind it. You’ll learn how to properly prepare your fabrics through scouring and mordanting, gaining a deeper understanding of how plant dyes bond to cloth and why these foundational steps matter.

You’ll be introduced to a variety of plant dyes, along with their color offerings and rich histories, allowing you to choose your materials not just for their hue, but for their essence and story. You’ll have the option to work with native plants that I have personally gathered and collected, as well as traditional dye materials that I’ve thoughtfully sourced and stocked in my studio, offering a balance between local connection and time-honored dye practices.

Once you’ve selected your palette, we’ll begin creating.

The creative possibilities are expansive. You may choose to immersion dye in a single tone, layer multiple colors, explore ombré gradients, experiment with tie-dye techniques, or incorporate eco-printing. Your process is entirely your own and I’ll be there to guide and support you every step of the way.

Day One is devoted to coming together as a group and setting intentions for our time together, as well as the preparation process involving scouring and mordanting your fabrics.

Day Two is where the magic unfolds- building dye baths and bringing your pieces to life through color and technique.

Each participant will receive a plant-dyed field journal to use throughout the workshop for notes, sketches, pressed plants, and inspiration, as well as a detailed take-home guide covering everything we explore in class. (Please note: indigo dyeing is not included, as it requires a dedicated workshop of its own.)

Light snacks and tea will be provided, however it is recommended to bring your own lunch as we will have time to take a break and sit in the garden and replenish

By the end of our time together, you’ll leave with two uniquely dyed pieces to wear and cherish, along with the knowledge and confidence to continue your plant dyeing practice at home.

Please come prepared with two pieces of clothing that are made from natural fibers only (cotton, linen, silk). 

When: May 2nd & 3rd, 11-3pm

Where: Rooted Botanic's Studio in Ojai (address will be emailed a few days before workshop)

Please note that all workshop bookings are final. Each space is thoughtfully prepared in advance, so we’re unable to offer refunds once your spot is reserved. Thank you for understanding the care that goes into each gathering.