Lesson 14: Shibori

Starter: What is Shibori? 

Shibori is a Japanese resist technique which is used when dying fabrics. There are many different techniques used to create the Shibori resist, they usually involve binding, twisting, clamping, folding, stitching, plaiting, knotting and compressing. 

Image sourced from HonestlyWTF DIY Shibori post  

There are 2 ways which you can use Shibori; as a dying technique and as a 3D manipulation technique:

Lesson Aims: To continue working towards AO2 Experiment by creating a series of initial samples using the Japanese resist technique 'Shibori' 

Lesson Objectives: (during this lesson you will):
1. Create a series of initial samples exploring a range of Shibori Techniques
2. Create samples using Shibori as a dying technique
3. Create samples using Shibori as a 3D manipulation technique

Tasks/Timings

Shibori Methods

'MARBLE' Shibori - small shapes such as marbles, shells, screws, bottle tops etc are individually tied into fabric

'ARASHI' Shibori - folded fabric wrapped diagonally around 'pole' then over-wrapped with string

'MOKUME' Shibori - fabric gathered into accordian pleats or hand stitched zig-zag lines

'ITAJIME' Shibori - Folding fabric compressed between two blocks or in a clamp

Dying Techniques
1. Use each of the above methods using NATURAL fabrics
2. Mix up Procion dyes in appropriate colour ways
3. Leave to soak for approx. 30 MINS
4. Rinse (whilst still folded) then hang to dry
5. Once dry unfold and iron flat to reveal patterns

3D Manipulation
1. Use each of the above methods using SYNTHETIC fabrics
2. Add colour to fabric with brushes and/or spray bottles using the Transfer dyes 
3. Place in the steamer for 20 MINS
4. Once dry unfold to reveal shaped fabric

PRESENTING SAMPLES

These are some suggestions for presenting your samples. For dyed samples you could stitch together to create a patchwork and/or lengths of fabric 

For 3D Manipulation samples it works well to mount them using double sided tape OR window mount them - it is good to put them on a board as they will squash in a book! 

Extension 
If you wish to complete further research into Shibori the following links are recommended:
World Shibori Network
Shibori Girl
Michelle Griffiths 
Nieves Carrasco 
HonestlyWTF DIY Shibori