Aizome Studio | suzanne connors

One-Day Workshop | Aya Fiber Studio

A focused two-day study of stitched resist techniques, exploring the relationship between thread, tension, and indigo.

Working on Japanese tenugui cotton fabric and using traditional stitching tools, students are introduced to kumo and nui shibori, where thread is used to gather and compress cloth, creating pattern through controlled resistance. The process is slower and more deliberate, emphasizing precision, rhythm, and the physical act of mark-making through stitch.

On the first day, students prepare a natural reduction indigo vat, establishing a working environment that supports extended dye cycles and deeper color development throughout the workshop.

Students learn how variations in stitch length, spacing, and tension influence the final pattern. Over multiple dye cycles, these stitched structures are refined and observed as they interact with indigo.

Instruction is responsive and individualized. Beginners are guided through foundational stitching techniques, while returning students explore more complex compositions, density, and scale.

Students will complete a series of stitched and dyed tenugui, developing both technical skill and a deeper sensitivity to process.

• Part of the Aizome Shibori Signature Series. This workshop may be taken independently or as part of the full progression.

What You’ll Learn

• How resist techniques create pattern in cloth
• The basics of working with a natural indigo vat
• Stitching and wrapping methods
• Using buffers
• how to bind and wrap

What You’ll Leave With

• One or more finished cloth pieces
• Foundational skills to continue exploring shibori

Who This Workshop Is For

• Beginners with no prior dye experience
• Artists and makers exploring surface design
• Anyone interested in Japanese textile traditions

Materials

Students may bring their own natural fiber cloth (cotton, linen, silk) ( cut to 14" width) , or purchase additional materials through the studio.

A materials fee may apply. Details will be provided upon registration.

What to Bring

• Apron or clothes suitable for dyeing
• long diswashing gloves
• old cotton toweling
• needles you can thread/ needle threader
• thimble (optional)
• Closed-toe shoes
• Optional: personal fabrics to dye

Important Notes

• Indigo is a natural dye, but it can permanently stain clothing
• Some hand strength is helpful for binding techniques
• Please arrive on time, as the dye process is time-sensitive

Looking Ahead

This workshop also serves as a foundation for those interested in continuing into our
Shibori: Cloth, Lineage & Indigo Discipline – Signature Mastery Series