As a surface design artist, you already know colour and pattern – the way a value shift can change everything, how repeating imagery builds rhythm, and how bold contrast draws the eye.
What if you could build on those instincts with a technique that feels like opening a gift every single time – one that surprises you, even after you’ve done it dozens of times?
Ice dyeing is that technique. Using ice as the carrier for dye powder, you’ll create patterns and textures that are one-of-a-kind. No two pieces are ever the same. If you’re ready to try something new, you’re in the right place.
What You’ll Be Able to Create
After this workshop, you’ll have the skills to build a fabric inventory that is entirely your own – every piece a new creation, ready for whatever you want to make with it.
Here’s what that looks like:
- Create yardage – not just samples, but long lengths of fabric ready for larger projects
- Dye coordinating patterns in different colourways so pieces work together
- Make home décor items – cushions, wall hangings, table runners, and more
- Build a ready stash so you can start creating whenever the mood strikes
- Develop a signature aesthetic that reflects your artistic voice
Once you have these skills, plain fabric will look different to you. Every piece becomes a possibility.
Exciting NEW content now included:
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- Incline Dyeing techniques
- Grid Folding methods
- Additional folding patterns
- How to dye clothing and yardage
- …and so much more!
$90.00CDN
Once you register….
Instant access: As soon as you register, you’ll receive an email with your unique login and password. Download your supply list, preparation guide, and everything else you need right away, and begin whenever you’re ready.
Ongoing support: Have a question along the way? Just email me. I’m here to help.
Colour on Ice
Here’s what we’ll cover:
• the dyes and chemicals that you will use• safe studio practices, how to set up your dyeing area
• equipment such as measuring cups, colanders and more
• getting the fabric ready for dyeing
• the “magic” folding patterns – it’s all in the folding!
• dye colour choices
• setting up the fabric, the ice and the dye
• batching time – be patient, young Luke…..
• rinsing and washing your fabrics
• getting excited!
Remember, you have a lifetime access to all content…I am update content when I create new ideas and techniques.
$90.00CDN
What Is Ice Dyeing, Exactly?
Fibre Reactive dyes need three things: fabric, a dye activator (soda ash, which bonds the colour permanently to the fibres), and water, snow, or ice to dissolve and carry the dye.
If you’ve dyed before, you’ve probably used warm or hot water – the classic approach, and a good one for solid colours and predictable results.
Ice changes everything.
As the ice melts, it carries the dye across the fabric – but more slowly than water. This slows the reaction, letting the dye reach different areas at different rates. Some spots saturate quickly; others develop gradually. That’s what creates the organic patterns, unexpected colour blends, and texture variations that make ice dyeing so special.
It’s chemistry and artistry, working together.
A Little About Me
I’ve been a dyer and surface design artist for over 20 years, and teaching surface design for about 15 of those. I’ve taken countless workshops, earned advanced diplomas in textiles and art, and tried more techniques than I can count. Many of them take real time and practice before they click – that’s just part of being an artist.
What makes Colour on Ice different is that success comes right from the start.
I want you to enjoy this workshop and come away with fabric you love. If you’re new to dyeing, you’ll be able to create things you didn’t think were possible yet. If you’re experienced, you’ll find fresh ideas to add to your practice. Either way, there’s something here for you.
