Masterclass – Japanese Heritage Indigo (One Technique Focus)

Overview

A one-to-one full‑day workshop exploring Japanese heritage indigo through one chosen technique: Shibori, Katazome, or Indigo dyeing basics.

Participants spend a quiet, immersive day in Emi’s studio, working directly with her fermented indigo vat.
This masterclass is designed for those who wish to understand indigo through practice, observation, and the slow discipline of Japanese craft.

Choose Your Technique

Shibori – Japanese Resist Patterning

Explore the foundations of shibori through folding, binding, stitching, and compression.
You will prepare cloth carefully, create your pattern, and dye it in the indigo vat to reveal layered tones and movement.

Katazome – Rice‑Paste Resist

Learn the quiet discipline of katazome using hand‑made rice paste and stencils.
You will apply paste, allow it to dry, and dye your cloth in the vat to create atmospheric, soft‑edged patterns unique to fermented indigo.

Indigo Dyeing Basics – Depth Through Repetition

Focus purely on indigo itself.
You will learn how cloth responds to multiple dips, how oxidation builds tone, and how repetition creates depth and clarity in colour.

What You Will Learn

Indigo Vat – Observation & Understanding

You will work directly with Emi’s fermented indigo vat.
Rather than learning how to build a vat, this class focuses on how to observe and work with it respectfully.

• Reading the vat through colour and surface movement

• Understanding the indigo flower as a sign of balance

• Gentle stirring during dyeing

• How fermentation influences tone and depth

(Vat‑building methods are not taught in this class.)

Technique Practice – Your Chosen Focus

• Preparing cloth for shibori, katazome, or basic dyeing

• Step‑by‑step guidance through your chosen technique

• Creating pattern, resist, or layered tone

• Working slowly and attentively with natural materials

Material & Time

Japanese indigo is shaped by time.
Throughout the day you will learn:

• How cloth transforms through oxidation

• How repeated dipping builds layered colour

• Gentle finishing and washing techniques

• How to work with patience and rhythm

Hands‑On Dyeing

• Preparing cloth

• Applying your chosen technique

• Dyeing in Emi’s fermented indigo vat

• Building depth through multiple dips

• Final rinse, oxidation, and drying

Duration

Up to 6 hours
Includes breaks, tea, and quiet studio time.

Who This Is For

• Artists

• Designers

• Textile practitioners

• Anyone seeking a deeper, slower, heritage‑based approach to indigo

• No previous experience required.

What You Will Take Home

• Your finished shibori, katazome, or indigo piece

• Indigo samples

• Notes on technique

• A deeper understanding of Japanese heritage craft

Location

Emi Fujisawa Studio, Northamptonshire
A quiet space dedicated to indigo fermentation and textile research.

Note for the Workshop

All materials are included.

Once you have completed your booking,
we will contact you by email within 2 working days
to discuss your preferred date and the technique you would like to focus on.
Please ensure your contact details are correct when booking.