Indigo-Dyed Linen Apron Weekend Workshop

Create a beautiful handmade linen apron and discover the magic of natural indigo dyeing in this inspiring two-day workshop.

Over the weekend, you'll design and make your own cross-back linen apron from start to finish, learning garment construction techniques suitable for confident beginners and experienced makers alike. You'll have the opportunity to personalise your apron with traditional Japanese-inspired details, choosing either a hand-stitched sashiko pocket or creating a unique shibori-dyed pocket before assembly.

Day One

Cut, sew and construct your linen cross-back apron. You'll learn sewing techniques for creating a durable, comfortable apron and can add decorative shibori or sashiko stitching to your pocket if desired to make your piece truly unique.

Day Two

Complete the finishing touches on your apron before immersing it in a natural indigo dye vat. You'll learn about the fascinating indigo dyeing process and watch as your apron transforms into beautiful shades of blue. Depending on your design choices, you'll also have the opportunity to incorporate shibori resist-dyeing techniques to create distinctive patterns and textures.

By the end of the weekend, you'll take home a finished handmade linen apron that is both practical and beautifully individual—a unique piece combining sewing, stitching and natural dyeing traditions.

Suitable For

Beginners and those with some sewing experience.

What's Included

• Linen fabric for your apron if booked. If yu wish to supply your own fabric and pay less, you will need 1-1.5m of white or cream medium weight 100% linen or cotton (non stretch) which will need to be scoured with detergent and washing soda before the workshop, to ensure all waxes and oils from growth and production are removed. 
• Use of sewing equipment and tools
• Indigo dye materials
• Sashiko stitching materials
• Expert tuition throughout the weekend

Your Tutors

Caroline Bawn

Caroline is an experienced natural dyer who is passionate about teaching and inspiring others to explore natural dyeing as an alternative to synthetic dyes. She enjoys sharing the creativity, sustainability and connection to nature that natural colour can bring, and believes it is a rewarding and environmentally friendly way to work with textiles.

Caroline achieved a Distinction in her Certificate of Achievement with the Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers and is the author of The Natural Dyer's Almanac, a practical and inspiring guide to natural dyeing throughout the seasons.

Saj Collyer

Saj is the owner of Go Deer Workshop and has many years of experience teaching creative textile skills. An experienced tutor and event organiser, she runs regular dressmaking classes alongside a wide range of textile arts workshops and courses. Saj loves helping students develop confidence in their sewing skills and creating a welcoming, supportive environment where makers of all abilities can learn and be inspired.

Together, Caroline and Saj bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in sewing, textile crafts and natural dyeing, ensuring you'll be supported throughout the weekend as you create your own unique indigo-dyed linen apron.

Leave with new skills, creative confidence and a stunning handmade apron that reflects both traditional craftsmanship and your own personal style.