Natural Dyeing with Black Walnuts

The black walnut tree’s fruit is a familiar (and sometimes frustrating!) sight to many of us. Black walnuts have various uses, however, including as a versatile natural dye! Dyes extracted from walnut husks have been used across many cultures, with the black walnut we are using native to North America. Textile artist Riley Kleve will guide students through how to make a dye bath using the husks of this easily foraged fruit. Utilizing several resist methods, students will then hand dye silk scarves to create a unique accessory to wear or display around your home. Suitable for ages 18+ or registrants ages 14–17 accompanied by a registered adult.

Weather permitting, this class will take place outdoors. There may be some downtime during the dye process, so students may want to bring a small handwork project from home to occupy themselves. Wear clothing you don’t mind getting messy or bring an apron, as well as a plastic bag to bring home wet projects. A $20 materials fee is due to the instructor in class.

Black walnut dye is non-toxic, and husks should not be an issue for individuals with nut allergies, however, let ASI know at the time of registration if you have a tree nut allergy.