Cochineal Dyeing Workshop

Dye-Me-Pink, Dye-Me-Red! Dye a scarf using cochineal, a natural dye historically used to colour ceremonial robes.



2.5 hours Class size 12 to 20 guests    

  £80 (£85 per guest when you book for 1+ guests, £80/guest for 4+ guests) (PayPal Pay in 3 available)

 Mordanting Fabrics

Mordanting Fabrics

Learn the ways to prepare fabrics for dyeing.


Cochineal

Cochineal

Learn about this dye and how it's prepared.


Pounded Cochineal.

Pounded Cochineal

Pounding to get the dyeing powder


Prepare the fabric with shibori techniques

Prepare the Fabric with Shibori Techniques

Soaking the folded, clamped and tied bags.


In the dye-pot

In the Dye-pot

Submerge in the dye-pot
Keep it for at least 12 hours


The big reveal

The Big Reveal

Unfold to see the beautiful patterns emerge.


Step into the world of natural dyeing with Dye-Me-Pink, Dye-Me-Red, where you'll create your own hand-dyed scarf using cochineal – a natural dye with a rich history in colouring ceremonial robes. Discover the fascinating process of dye extraction and experience the alchemy of coaxing both vibrant pinks and deep reds from a single source.
During the workshop, you'll:
  • Learn the history behind this beautiful dye
  • Discover how to prepare and mordant fabric for dyeing
  • Explore the essentials of resist and tie-dye techniques
  • Learn how folding, tying, clamping and stitching create beautiful patterns and unique designs
  • Experiment with dyes to produce rich, vibrant colours and striking effects
  • Get to grips with the basics of colour, dyeing and the science behind the process
  • Create your own hand-dyed piece with friendly, step-by-step guidance throughout
You'll leave with a scarf that's entirely your own, plus the confidence and inspiration to carry your natural dyeing journey home with you.
What you'll get
  • You will take a beautiful hand-dyed scarf back home.
  • Iced tea and snacks.
Knowledge required
Beginner-friendly — no previous experience is needed.
What to bring
  • Please wear black clothes and bring an apron.
  • All materials are included — just bring your curious and enthusiastic self.
  • A plastic bag if you want carry your work back same day, although advisable to collect it any day after the next.
  • A drink if you’d like — feel free to bring a glass of wine or beer. We’ll provide paper cups!
Location

House 54, Camberwell Green, SE5 7AS, London

Cochineal Dyeing Workshop location
Your teacher

Playfulart.Studio
Playfulart.Studio

female Women-owned

I am a self-employed visual artist based in London for the past seven years.
After graduating with Distinction from Chelsea College of Arts, I completed an MA at the Royal College of Art, specialising in the public sphere. My practice is largely inclusive and socially engaged — I enjoy creating spaces where people can come together, experiment, and discover the joy of making.
Over the years, I have designed and facilitated workshops for people of all ages with organisations including London Museum, Arbeit Studios, Bow Arts, Perivale Library, and Chisenhale Studio. These have been commissioned and paid workshops, allowing me to connect with diverse communities through creative practice.
Teaching is something I find deeply rewarding. I love witnessing people overcome hesitation, explore materials, and surprise themselves through the process of making. For me, creativity is not just about the final outcome but about connection, curiosity, and shared experiences.
Sustainability is central to both my artistic practice and my way of living. I often create spaces that encourage conversations around sustainable ways of being in an urban environment. Playfulart.Studio workshops are an extension of this — inviting people to slow down, engage with materials, and explore more mindful and creative ways of living.
I am now expanding my workshop practice to create a more consistent platform through Playfulart.Studio for sharing these experiences alongside my own art practice.
2026-07-31 15:00:00
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production london London London GB london