Growing and Using Natural Dyes

This practical, hands-on day offers an opportunity to learn about growing and using natural dyes on the very farm where they are produced. The day begins with an exploration of the Rosehip Project’s colourful garden, a working farm dedicated to growing plants specifically for natural dyeing. After a tasty homemade lunch, the afternoon is spent with Dee Sayce, an experienced textile artist, who guides participants through the process of dyeing cloth and yarn.

The workshop covers all stages of natural dyeing, including sowing, planting and harvesting, followed by processing plants and setting up dye baths for dyeing fabric, yarn, fleece and fibre. Participants leave with their own dyed yarn, fleece, fabric or tote bag. Designed for hobbyists, growers, artists and craftspeople, the day is ideal for anyone looking to develop their knowledge of natural dyes.

This workshop forms part of Common Threads, a project focused on encouraging women to take up space in Sheffield city centre through weaving and the arts. Each September, the project hosts a festival that transforms the city centre with a woven “living room”, animated by performances, meals, music and workshops. Throughout the rest of the year, a programme of workshops is delivered in collaboration with women’s groups across the city.

Dee Sayce is an enthusiastic and experienced textile artist and tutor, specialising in spinning, natural dyes, weaving and coiled basketry. She enjoys growing and foraging plants to dye sheep fleece and uses her hand-spun yarn to create knitted and woven items such as cushions, bags, containers, rugs, clothes, creative textile artworks and wall hangings.

The Rosehip Project is one arm of The Rosehip Field, a small market garden based in the Rivelin Valley, growing organic vegetables for local cafés and restaurants. A significant part of the site is also dedicated to cultivating plants and flowers for use as natural dyes. Through workshops, DIY craft packs and naturally dyed products, the project aims to share the tradition and creativity of plant-based dyes, demonstrating the range of colours that can be achieved from home-grown plants without harming the environment.