Leaves can naturally transfer their color onto fabric. In eco-dyeing, also known as plant printing, patterns are created on fabric using leaves from various plants. Since the publication of India Flint’s books, this dyeing technique has gained popularity. The art lies in ensuring that the leaf not only leaves a colored spot but also makes the vein pattern visible in the print. The instructors at Hawar Textielinstituut know exactly how to achieve this effect. They teach about the natural dyes present in different leaves and how to create sharp, clear prints.

In this workshop, you will print a soft and summery scarf made of Etamine de Laine with your own pattern using various leaves. You don’t need to bring anything for the workshop as we will provide a wide selection of leaves. Part of the workshop involves fixing the colors, which takes about an hour. You don’t need to stay for this process, but please note that you won’t be able to take the scarf home immediately after the workshop. If you enjoy experimenting, you can also bring your own leaves from plants, trees, or flowers. While we may not know exactly what color each leaf will produce, the surprise often results in even more beautiful outcomes!

Harm Harms is a teacher and owner of the family-run Hawar Textielinstituut, where instructors from both the Netherlands and abroad share their knowledge and skills in a large and inviting workshop space. The institute also houses an extensive store and an inspiring gallery, making it a hub for discovering and rediscovering new and old materials and textile techniques. During the festival, Harm leads workshops alongside Floor de Bruijn. She has a background as a designer at Humanoid and teaches at Hawar in the reuse and restyling of clothing and fabrics.