This class is offered through Lessonface. Please click here to register on their website.

Discover the rich, centuries-old tradition of shibori, a Japanese resist-dyeing technique that uses stitches, knots, and folds to create intricate patterns on fabric.

In this virtual workshop, artist and educator David Heustess will guide you through the process of stitching and binding fabric to form beautiful designs. You'll begin by creating small samplers on cotton fabric to practice a variety of stitch and knot techniques. More experienced students can explore their own custom designs for wall hangings, quilt pieces, or garment fabrics.

You'll receive detailed instructions on:

• Shibori stitching techniques and design principles
• Creating and maintaining an indigo dye vat
• Alternative dyeing methods
• Rinsing and caring for your finished pieces

This course is designed for flexible learning: work at your own pace between Zoom sessions, with email access to David for questions and support.

What you'll make:

• A stitched sampler (approx. 12" x 12")
• A silk scarf or small wall hanging featuring your own shibori design

Whether you're new to dyeing or looking to expand your skills, this workshop offers an inspiring, hands-on dive into textile artistry.

David Heustess is a Nashville-based artist and educator whose work combines clay, fiber arts, and beadwork. He earned his BFA in Clay and Fiber Arts from the Appalachian Center for Craft in 1995 and currently directs a gallery and community arts program at Vanderbilt University. David is a passionate teacher, leading workshops for the Handweavers Guild of America, the MidAtlantic Fiber Association, and the John C. Campbell Folk School, where he shares his love for traditional craft and contemporary creativity.

$135 -$162

Additional Supply Fee:  None. 

Scholarship Available: No.

Level: Open to all skill levels.

Minimum Number of Students: 8 by December 27, 2025

Maximum Number of Students: 30

Required Supplies:

Supplies For Shibori:

• Cotton muslin (for a class sampler David usually cuts a 12”x12” piece of fabric)
• Silk scarves (your choice in width and length)
• Craft and button thread or dental floss
• Needles (David typically uses a pack of assorted sized needles, embroidery needles are also an option)
• Seeds or beads for knotting
• A few sheets of card stock (paper plates will work as well) to make templates
• Ruler
• Pencil (your choice here - a number 2 pencil, an ebony pencil, or a washable fabric pencil)
• Masking or Painter’s Tape
• Embroidery scissors or seam ripper

Supplies for Dyeing (David will provide the information for chemistry during the dyeing lesson as there are a number of options. But other things you will need are):

• Alum to soak your silk (can be bought spice section at grocery store)
• A container for soaking the silk
• Latex or vinyl exam gloves
• Distilled white vinegar approx 1/4 cup
• Mild plant based soap approx 1/4 cup
• Drying racks or clotheslines

Class Schedule: The class will be online on Sunday, January 11, January 18, January 25 and February 1 from 3-5 pm

Note: This class is offered through Lessonface. Clicking the Register button above will take you to their website to sign up.