Materials and Studio Resources

Materials, Tools & Where to Buy

A curated guide to materials, tools, and trusted sources used in the studio.

At Aya Fiber Studio, materials are selected for their quality, reliability, and compatibility with the processes we teach. These resources are intended to support your work before, during, and after your time in the studio.

If your workshop requires specific materials, please refer to your supply list first.

For general sourcing, see the links below:

Aizome Studio Materials & Tools

Some materials used in Aizome Studio workshops are selected or produced specifically for use within the studio.
These are not part of a general retail offering and are available in limited quantities.

Signature Scarves

Select materials used in our Signature Series scarves are prepared or sourced specifically for Aya Fiber Studio.

These pieces are developed within the studio and are not part of a general retail offering.

Availability is limited and may vary by season.

Handwoven Eri silk scarf from the Aya Signature Collection, dyed by Suzanne Connors using shibori and indigo techniques, revealing layered pattern and natural texture.

Hand-dyed textile created using studio techniques

Helpful Links

Preparing for your workshop?
→ Prepare for Your Workshop

New to Aya?
→ What to Expect

View current supply lists
→ Supply Lists & Materials

Materials are an integral part of the process. Choosing and preparing them with care allows you to fully engage with the work once you arrive in the studio.

Set of woodworking chisels, paint swatches, a utility knife, and a roll of brown wrapping paper on a table.

Katazome Class Kits

Each Aizome Studio Katazome workshop is grounded in the use of traditional tools—katagami stencils, rice paste resist, and hand application methods. These are provided as a complete kit, supporting a direct and authentic engagement with the process

A series of tall bamboo sticks standing vertically mounted on wooden bases, with ropes hanging from the sticks, all set against a dark background.

Aya Studio Shibori Stands

These shibori stands are made to order for Aya Fiber Studio, designed to replicate traditional bamboo stands used in Japan.

They are used in the studio for pole wrapping and advanced shibori techniques that require proper tension, structure, and scale—elements not easily achieved with improvised tools.

These stands are not widely available in the United States and are produced in small batches.- Stands are also used in Aizome Studio Signature Shibori Workshops

Available by inquiry.

Resources

A collection of references, suppliers, and materials to support your work beyond the studio.

    • Organic Cotton Plus – untreated and organic cotton fabrics

    • The Fabric Store (linen) – high-quality linen in a range of weights

    • Big Duck Canvas – durable cotton canvas and heavier-weight fabrics

    • Test Fabrics (PFD) – prepared-for-dye fabrics ideal for surface design

    • Exotic Silks – a wide range of silk fabrics for dyeing and specialty work

    • Thai Silks – handwoven and specialty silk textiles

  • For dyeing, printing, and surface design:

    • Dharma Trading Company – indigo, fiber reactive dyes, pigments

    • Jacquard Products – dyes, paints, and textile mediums

    • Pro Chemical & Dye – professional-grade dyes and chemicals

  • Basic tools used across many workshops:

    • Blick Art Materials – brushes, tools, and studio supplies

    • Amazon – basic tools, containers, and general supplies

    • Wawak – sewing tools, thread, and notions

  • Select tools and materials rooted in traditional Japanese textile practices.

    These items are often sourced in limited quantities and may not be widely available through general suppliers.

    Tools

    Shitajiki (Work Surface Pads)
    Protective surfaces used during dyeing and paste work.

    Hera (Marking & Folding Tools)
    Used for precise folding and crease-setting in resist processes.

    Clamps & Binding Tools
    Traditional and adapted tools for shaping fabric in shibori techniques.

    Materials

    Indigo Sukumo (Composted Indigo)
    Traditional Japanese indigo used in fermentation vats.

    Washi Paper
    Used in various resist and surface design applications.

    Specialty Threads & Binding Materials
    Selected for strength and compatibility with dye processes.

    Some tools and materials used in the studio are sourced directly through small producers and are not consistently available through commercial channels.

    • Maiwa Handprints – shibori tools, indigo supplies

    • Upcyclers / specialty importers – vintage and specialty items (varies by workshop)

    Some materials used in Aizome Studio workshops are sourced directly from Japan and may be provided or made available during class.

  • A selection of texts that inform the processes and perspectives explored in the studio.

    Shibori & Resist Dyeing

    Shibori: The Inventive Art of Japanese Shaped Resist Dyeing — Yoshiko Iwamoto Wada
    A foundational text exploring traditional and contemporary shibori techniques.

    Memory on Cloth: Shibori Now — Yoshiko Iwamoto Wada
    A deeper look at global interpretations and innovations in resist dyeing.

    Natural Dyeing

    The Art and Science of Natural Dyes — Joy Boutrup & Catharine Ellis
    A comprehensive guide bridging traditional knowledge and scientific understanding.

    Wild Color — Jenny Dean
    An accessible introduction to natural dyes using plants and found materials.

    Indigo & Aizome

    Indigo: The Color That Changed the World — Catherine Legrand
    A visual and historical exploration of indigo across cultures.

    These books are offered as references for continued learning and deeper exploration.

In-Studio Supplies

Aya Fiber Studio maintains a small, curated selection of fabrics, essential supplies, and signature scarf blanks available for purchase during workshops.

These are offered as a convenience if you need something additional or prefer to work with materials selected specifically for studio use.

Shipping to the Studio

For convenience, materials may be shipped to the studio ahead of your session.

Packages should be clearly labeled with your name and scheduled date. Full details will be shared after booking.

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