Discover the history and chemistry of the cochineal natural dye process. This hands-on workshop explores the amazing scale insect, the cochineal, and the hot pink dye it produces. Each participant will learn a variety of shibori dyeing methods and then create a silk scarf of their own design. Shibori, a Japanese technique of applying patterns to fabric, will be introduced during this class.
Dyeing supplies are provided in class.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructor: Rachel Davis, artist
Age: 16 and older
Course number: A270
Instructor
Rachel Davis, artist
Rachel Davis received her BA from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh and her MFA in printmaking from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her work has been exhibited in national venues including the Holter Museum of Fine Art in Helena, Montana; Evergreen Galleries in Olympia, Washington; and the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts, and Letters in Madison, Wisconsin. She completed a yearlong artist-in-residence at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago in 2018 and an artist-in-residence at the DuPage Children’s Museum in 2019. Currently, she teaches natural dye techniques in the textiles department at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago.
What to Know
This program takes place indoors.
Dyeing supplies are provided in class.
Please bring a pair of long kitchen gloves.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, or bring an apron.
See Education Program Policies for information about cancellations, refunds, and scholarships.
Program Schedule
Thursday, July 23, 2026, 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Thornhill Shelter (parking lot P-21), West Side
