Indigo

Amanda’s history with Shibori

It took 3 years to complete a vast school/community textile project ‘SGS 400 Quilts’. Successful completion of the project involved Amanda to immerse herself into researching creative textile techniques and also teaching adults in the community. This experience ignited Amanda’s decision to step down from full time to part-time teaching in 2014. The project had opened the world of creative textiles and invited her in. Amanda started stitching and hand-dyeing fabric at the weekends and teaching adults during the holiday periods. These practices proved wonderfully therapeutic and very addictive in between teaching days and reminded Amanda of her mother who, once her workday and housework was finished would crochet in front of the television late into the evening.

Research into Japanese Boro stitching led Amanda quite directly to the ancient art of Japanese Shibori Tie-dye. The dramatic contrasts of the blue indigo pattern on the white fabric again sparked childhood memories. Whilst growing up the family china was always blue willow pattern, usually funded via Tesco Green Shield stamps. Later in life her mother’s ambition to own a Spode Blue Italian tea set was eventually achieved and Amanda was lucky to inherit it.

Shibori Tie Dyeing is quite simply great fun. Using re-purposed sheets Amanda accumulated stashes of fabric that could be used for her hand stitching. What began as a therapeutic hobby grew into an obsession that in turn became the theme of a workshop for adults. Sharing the joy of Shibori in annual workshops continues and Amanda now dyes wool felt too.