Aizome Studio | suzanne connors

Katazome: Resist & Reveal

An Aizome Studio Signature Series Workshop with Suzanne Connors
Hosted at Aya Fiber Studio, Stuart, Florida

Held at the Aya Fiber Studio, this five-day intensive offers an intimate immersion into the traditional Japanese art of katazome—rice paste resist dyeing.

Working in a small-group environment, participants will explore hand-cut stencil design, rice paste application, indigo dyeing, and layered color processes that reveal pattern through patience and precision.

This studio-based experience emphasizes focused making, thoughtful experimentation, and a deep connection to material, tradition, and personal expression.

Kata means stencil.
Zome means to dye.

Together, they form a methodical, deeply satisfying rhythm of process and pattern—a meditative journey where patience meets beauty.

You’ll move through multiple stages of katazome practice, working with Japanese rice paste, natural indigo, and layered dyes to create cloth that holds both texture and story.

Workshop Flow

Each day is thoughtfully structured—building a strong foundation before opening into more independent exploration.

Day 1 – Foundations & First Cuts

We begin with the essentials:

• Overview of katazome history and process
• Tools, materials, and studio setup
• Introduction to katagami paper and knife handling
• Design planning and pattern transfer
• Begin cutting your first stencil

The focus is on building confidence and establishing good habits from the start.

Day 2 – Stencil Cutting & Backing

• Continue cutting stencils
• Learn traditional silk backing techniques
• Finish and reinforce stencils
• Discuss fabric choices and layout

By the end of the day, most participants will have at least one finished stencil ready for use.

Day 3 – Paste & Printing

• Prepare rice paste together
• Learn how to set up fabric with shinshi
• Practice applying paste through stencils
• Begin printing on fabric

This is a pivotal day—where process and design begin to fully come together.

Day 4 – Indigo & Independent Work

• Indigo dyeing process and vat care
• Dye pasted fabrics
• Continue printing, dyeing, and refining work

By this stage, you’ll have learned all essential techniques and will begin developing your own rhythm and direction.

Day 5 – Finishing & Reflection

• Final printing and dyeing
• Washing out and finishing cloth
• Open studio time to complete pieces
• Group walk-through and discussion

This final day is centered on completion and reflection.
If you’re unable to attend, you won’t miss new instruction—only additional studio time and group sharing.

✨ Bonus

• A noren pattern will be shared for continued exploration
• Indigo kits will be available for purchase so you can continue working at home

Supply List

https://www.ayafiberstudio.com/katazome-workshop

Studio Environment
Create in Aya’s spacious, light-filled fiber art studio in Stuart, Florida — a space designed for thoughtful, hands-on work. Each artist enjoys ample workspace (never more than two per 4′×8′ table) with power, USB access, and full dye facilities.

Enjoy morning coffee, tea, and pastries, personalized lunch pickups from favorite local cafés, and the calm rhythm of making by the sea. During retreat weeks, the group often gathers for an optional dinner outing at a nearby waterfront restaurant.

Details
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Dates: February 16–20, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuition: $740
Skill Level: All Levels
Materials Fee: Additional (details provided upon registration)
Class Size: Limited to 10 participants

Experience the quiet beauty of process — where patience, pigment, and pattern come together in layers of light and indigo blue.