Natural fabric dyeing with Madder root

Last weekend I experimented with natural fabric dyeing techniques. For the "Found in the Woods" collection I dyed fabric in a rusty/orange colour.

I used raw silk for my experiment. The only thing is that the fabric did turn out a bit patchy which I will have to try and perfect in my next try. I want it to be just one even colour. Also I think raw silk gives it too much of a rough look so I will be using silk habitue which is a very light and soft type of silk next time.

Fabric dyeing should always be done outside or in a well ventilated room. Also I recommend wearing a mask.

With the madder root I used 3% madder root powder of the Weigh of Fabric - this is for light weight fabric only.

First dress and headpiece from "Found in the Woods" collection

Studio

Since we bought this house I haven't had a spare moment to equip and decorate my studio the way I wanted it. It was always very cramped and somewhat dark. Now it is finally done and I am very happy with it. Every time I walk past the room it makes me smile as it looks so inviting now and just makes me want to spend time in this new space of mine....

Progression....slowly but surely

Designs are now down on paper

Fabrics are in the studio

Cream cotton drill

Dark green cotton drill

Raw white silk

Rusty brown and white printed polyester

Inspiration for new collection

The new collection is all about dark forests, white fields and rust coloured leaves. 

Hence the name of the collection:

FOUND IN THE WOODS