Sunday March 29, 2026
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Rachel Miller
Materials Fee: $50 (paid directly to the instructor)
Students: 12
In this hands-on immersive workshop, led by Toronto-based artist Rachel Miller, participants will explore the fascinating technique of rust dyeing and mark-making on textiles.
Using rusted metal objects, we’ll harness the natural process of iron oxidation—initiated by air, moisture, and time—to create organic, expressive marks on fabric. Through binding, stitching, and shaping, participants will create unique, exploratory pieces that highlight both personal expression and the beauty of the process. Additionally, we’ll incorporate tea tannins to deepen the color palette, discovering how they interact with rust to add rich, layered tones.
Please note that rust dyeing is a time-sensitive technique, requiring aftercare at home, including rinsing the fabric. Participants will also be encouraged to share photos of their pieces to the instructor after the aftercare process for documentation.
Materials/Supplies:
Please bring: a few small, matching pairs of flat, non-organic objects to use for shape-resist techniques on fabric (e.g., two tongue depressors, two flat wood pieces, two large identical buttons, or two coins such as toonies). Please also plan to wear/ bring clothing you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, as rust dyeing can be messy!
All other materials will be provided.
Optional:
You’re welcome to bring one pre-washed, white or light-colored garment made from natural fibers if you’d like to try rust dyeing on a personal piece.
Please avoid bulky items like jeans, long dresses, jackets, or coveralls.
Simple items such as a T-shirt, tank top, shorts, leggings, or a mid-length skirt work best.
While rusty objects will be provided, you’re also welcome to bring your own (chains, springs, nails, hinges, chicken wire, etc.) if you’d like a wider variety to experiment with.
Image Credits: (1&2) Bizzy Davis (3&4) Mary McKenzie
Sunday March 29, 2026
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Rachel Miller
Materials Fee: $50 (paid directly to the instructor)
Students: 12
In this hands-on immersive workshop, led by Toronto-based artist Rachel Miller, participants will explore the fascinating technique of rust dyeing and mark-making on textiles.
Using rusted metal objects, we’ll harness the natural process of iron oxidation—initiated by air, moisture, and time—to create organic, expressive marks on fabric. Through binding, stitching, and shaping, participants will create unique, exploratory pieces that highlight both personal expression and the beauty of the process. Additionally, we’ll incorporate tea tannins to deepen the color palette, discovering how they interact with rust to add rich, layered tones.
Please note that rust dyeing is a time-sensitive technique, requiring aftercare at home, including rinsing the fabric. Participants will also be encouraged to share photos of their pieces to the instructor after the aftercare process for documentation.
Materials/Supplies:
Please bring: a few small, matching pairs of flat, non-organic objects to use for shape-resist techniques on fabric (e.g., two tongue depressors, two flat wood pieces, two large identical buttons, or two coins such as toonies). Please also plan to wear/ bring clothing you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, as rust dyeing can be messy!
All other materials will be provided.
Optional:
You’re welcome to bring one pre-washed, white or light-colored garment made from natural fibers if you’d like to try rust dyeing on a personal piece.
Please avoid bulky items like jeans, long dresses, jackets, or coveralls.
Simple items such as a T-shirt, tank top, shorts, leggings, or a mid-length skirt work best.
While rusty objects will be provided, you’re also welcome to bring your own (chains, springs, nails, hinges, chicken wire, etc.) if you’d like a wider variety to experiment with.
Image Credits: (1&2) Bizzy Davis (3&4) Mary McKenzie
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