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.