Japan Blue | Root Project
Cultural Experiences
Japan Blue
A Two-Day Introduction to Fermented Indigo Dyeing
WIth Yuki Itaya and Hilary Burns
Saturday 5th July and Sunday 6th July (10am-4pm both days)
On this two-day course, we will explore the slow, traditional process of fermented indigo dyeing, working with naturally fermented Japanese indigo leaf paste (sukomo). This is a hands-on introduction, rooted in practice, but also in an understanding of the deeper connections between dyeing, nature, and sustainability.
Day 1: Understanding & Preparing the Indigo Vat
The first morning begins with introductions and an overview of what fermented indigo dyeing is. We’ll talk about the history of the process, how it differs from other dyeing methods, and why fermentation is key to creating a living, natural vat. We'll take a close look at the materials used, including the indigo leaf paste, how the leaves are turned into a natural starter by composting. We will discuss how
aku –
ash-water, the natural alkaline agent, used to make the lye for the vat is made, the ingredients used to maintain the vat, their roles and how they work together.
In the afternoon, we’ll move on to begin preparing an indigo vat as a group. There is a step-by-step process of building and maintaining a healthy fermentation. We’ll talk about how to care for the vat over time, keeping it alive and in balance. Throughout the session, we’ll also talk about the environmental and health benefits of using natural indigo.
In advance of the workshop, over the course of a month or more, we will have prepared a vat to use for a dyeing session. You will learn how to assess the vat health and make any necessary adjustments in preparation for dyeing.
Day 2: Dyeing & Closing the Cycle
We prepare the fabric for dyeing, and practice the techniques for obtaining a uniform colour, before we begin the first dip in the pre-prepared vat and watch the oxidation as the indigo transforms from green to deep blue. There will be time to experiment with layering and deepening shades, allowing you to develop a feel for the rhythm of dyeing with fermented indigo.
Japanese fabric is supplied. You may like to bring a piece of your own fabric to dye. this must be natural cellulose – cotton/linen/hemp or hank of spun yarn. ½ sq metre maximum. (We will send instructions for pre-scouring. no wool please as that requires a different temperature).
In the afternoon, we’ll explore the wider benefits of natural indigo beyond its beauty. We’ll discuss its antibacterial properties, and how, when the vat is spent, it can be returned to the earth as fertilizer. We’ll share how old indigo liquid on the land can help nourish the soil.
This course is designed to be a grounding, hands-on introduction to a process that connects deeply to the natural world.
You will take away the knowledge on how to make and maintain your own vat. Please feel free to bring a notebook and pen to the sessions.
Oare House, and the Lorna Doone valley:
Your base for the day is Oare House, a regenerative working farm that sits within 170 acres of land with free roaming sheep, two donkeys and quite often a herd of grazing deer. Nestled in the heart of rolling Exmoor countryside and the idyllic hamlet of Oare, with a view of the church that famously featured in R D Blackmore’s romantic novel Lorna Doone. A stunning visual and backdrop for your workshop.
On the menu:
Tea and coffee on arrival, a homemade lunch enjoyed around the table embracing the best of the season, and tea and tisanes served with cake in the afternoon. Please let us know if you have any food allergies when you make this booking.
Information Source: Root Project | eventbrite