Natural Dyeing: A Heritage of Colour - In Search of RED

Historically, the colour red in textiles held immense symbolic and economic value. Red clothing was a conspicuous display of wealth, worn by royalty, the clergy and the elite. The difficult processes involved in achieving vibrant red dyes were laborious and expensive, making red clothing a potent symbol of social standing, wealth and authority.

Join Modern Eccentrics for this unique opportunity to experiment with some of the rarer historic dyes, Kermes, Sticklac and Safflower, alongside traditional dyes such as Madder, Cochineal and Sappanwood (also known as Eastern Brazil wood). Drawing on recipes from both traditional and renowned natural dyers, and with the aid of different mordants, modifiers and dye combinations, we will be able to create a spectrum of the colour red, one of the most prized colours in the history of natural dyeing.

This is a masterclass session suitable for students with some previous experience in natural dyeing. Please be aware that we will also be using some very rare traditional insect dyes which may not suit everyone.

Membership Priority Booking will open at 10.00 BST on Wednesday 25 June. General Booking will open at 10.00 BST on Monday 7 July 2025.