4-Day Botanical Print Immersion with Suzanne Connors

Prerequisite

Because this workshop moves quickly into advanced layering, sampling, and color development, participants should have previously taken an introductory eco-printing or botanical printing workshop with Suzanne Connors or have equivalent foundational experience in eco-printing techniques.

Students should already be comfortable with:

• Basic bundle construction

• Steaming and processing methods

• Working with natural fibers

• General eco-printing terminology and workflow

An introductory eco-printing workshop is typically offered earlier during the same week for students who are new to the process or would like a refresher before the immersion begins.

[Link to Intro Workshop]

This immersive workshop is designed for students ready to deepen their understanding of botanical color, layering, composition, and more complex surface development techniques.

Day 1 – Foundation & Fabric Preparation

• Introduction to eco-printing principles and materials

• Fabric preparation using mordants and tannins

• Plant selection and composition basics

• Introduction to bundle construction and wrapping techniques

• Begin assembling and processing initial bundles

Day 2 – Dye Preparation & Sampling

• Preparing blanket materials and steaming setups

• Rinsing and evaluating Day 1 results

• Preparing natural dye baths

• Developing color palettes through systematic sampling

• Exploring rhythm, movement, and repetition through plant placement

Day 3 – Indigo, Layering & Building Complexity

• Continued sampling to refine technique and color control

• Introduction to indigo as an over-dye and layering process

• Using indigo to shift, deepen, and unify botanical prints

• Combining eco-printing and dye techniques for more complex surfaces

• Building cohesion across multiple pieces and collections of work

Day 4 – Final Work & Finishing

• Focus on creating a larger or more resolved piece

• Final layering and over-dyeing techniques

• Final steam session beginning at 1:00 PM

• Full rinsing, clearing, and finishing of all work

• Unbundling and evaluating final results

Closing Session

• Group reflection and discussion

• Guided walk-through and critique of participant work

• Suggestions for continuing eco-printing exploration beyond the workshop

Participants can expect to leave with a substantial body of samples and finished work, along with a deeper understanding of botanical color, surface layering, and how to intentionally guide — while still embracing — the unpredictable nature of eco-printing.

Students are required to bring their own leaves, fabrics, blanket materials, and wood dowels for bundle construction and steaming.

A detailed supply list, including recommended fabrics, blanket materials, and suggested plant sources, can be found here:

View Full Supply List

Because botanical printing results are highly influenced by the materials used, students are encouraged to gather a variety of fresh or dried leaves and natural fiber fabrics prior to class. Bringing a range of plant materials often leads to richer experimentation and more varied results throughout the immersion.

Workshops at Aya Fiber Studio are intentionally small in size to allow for meaningful instruction, individual guidance, and immersive creative exploration.

Students work in a fully equipped fiber arts studio designed specifically for dyeing, printing, stitching, and surface design processes. The studio includes large worktables, dye kitchen access, outdoor steaming and rinsing areas, and ample space for experimentation.

Located in Stuart, Florida, Aya Fiber Studio welcomes students from across the country for thoughtfully curated workshops focused on process, craftsmanship, and creative community.