Exploring the Magic of Natural Color: An Introduction to Eco Printing

**please register for this workshop through the instructor's website teachpeaceprints.com***

This workshop will focus on how to create natural prints on fabric using plant pigments through the

process of eco printing. Dive into the realm of natural printmaking and dyeing processes with Katama

Murray of Teach Peace Prints in this hands-on, one day workshop! Hidden color exists all around us,

waiting to be transformed into works of art. In this course you will discover ways to utilize local plant

species and food compost in a sustainable, creative way. Eco printing is the process of bundling and

steaming natural materials onto either fabric or paper, allowing the natural pigments to transfer to the

prepared material. All of the colors, shapes, and textures come from the materials themselves which bond

with the fiber, leaving synthetic colors out of the equation that are harmful to both ourselves and the

environment.

This meditative process yields different results each time, and is a great opportunity to let go while

collaborating with nature. Eco printing offers unique variations and a world of possibilities that allow for

full exploration. Create beautiful, one of a kind pieces that can be admired forever, while taking time to

slow down and appreciate the richness and diversity of color dwelling alongside us.

What you’ll learn

● Suggestions for sustainable & mindful foraging techniques

● The preparatory process of mordanting will be covered briefly, with further instructions & recipes

included

● Bundling and fabric preparation techniques that yield different printed results

● How to create and care for your eco printed fabrics

What you’ll create

● All materials will be provided. Each participant will print onto a set of prepared materials

including:

○ 1 cotton bandana

○ 1 cotton tote bag

○ 1 sample piece of cotton fabric

○ 1 sample piece of linen fabric

What you’ll receive

● A basic understanding of the eco printing process

● Recipes and step by step instructions

● Information regarding the materials utilized

● A list of resources and links for purchasing materials, as well as suggestions for further reading,

research, and inspiration

● A list of suggested plants to work with seasonally

● 15% off coupon for any online Teach Peace Prints order

Workshop Materials List for Students

● Mask (to be worn indoors and/or outdoors with social distancing, depending on the current

COVID-19 climate)

● Lunch/snack & water

● Apron & gloves (optional)

● Sketchbook or phone for note-taking

*A detailed list of suggested plants to bring will be emailed to you upon registration.

Katama Murray is an artist and educator from Blue Hill, Maine. Her work is inspired by the earth’s

natural rhythm and our interconnectedness to the environment. Living and studying throughout various

parts of New England, she has always been influenced by the outdoors and the way in which we coexist

with it. Investigating ways of employing natural materials through experimentation with several

printmaking and fiber processes has greatly contributed to her own awareness of how scientific and

artistic practices overlap. These explorations have provided a deeper understanding of how to mindfully

collaborate with the natural world in exciting and interesting ways. With a BFA in Printmaking from

Plymouth State University in New Hampshire and a passion for multidisciplinary making, she strives to

learn and teach together with people of all ages. While managing and growing her small business, Teach

Peace Prints, Katama is currently studying at Indiana University Bloomington, working towards an MFA

in Printmaking.

Limited to 10 participants.

Cost: $125

**please register for this workshop through the instructors website teachpeaceprints.com***

Classes will all be taught outside under a tent, with a backup plan in case of rain. The location at Foster Farm is rustic, and participants should be comfortable being outdoors for the full day. Please bring your own lunch and anything else you need to be comfortable. Seating will be provided and there is a composting outhouse. 

Contact Ellie Brown at ejb.615@gmail.com with any questions.