Creative Alchemy: Class Details
Explore the natural world through the lens of botanical art. This immersive five-part series is designed for those who wish to work creatively with plants, blending science, craft, and tradition. Participants will engage in hands-on workshops that transform natural materials into functional and expressive works of art, deepening their understanding of the visual and energetic properties of plants.
Flower Pressing 101: Make Your Own Flower Press
August 16 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
In this foundational class, participants will learn the art and technique of pressing flowers for long-term preservation. Students will craft their own wooden flower press, explore plant selection for optimal pressing results, and practice various pressing techniques. This workshop offers a blend of creativity and practical skill-building, ideal for those who wish to incorporate botanical elements into art, journaling, or home décor.
A detailed worksheet will be provided, including:
- Instructions for making your own flower press
- DIY craft ideas using pressed flowers
- A summary of everything covered in class
All materials are provided, including a take-home flower press. The pressed plants you gather from this class can be used in the following sessions.
Cyanotype Printing: The Art of Sunlight and Shadow
August 30 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM
This class introduces participants to the historical art of cyanotype printing—a photographic process that uses natural sunlight to create striking blue-toned botanical imprints. Students will work with foraged plants to craft ethereal compositions on paper and fabric, leaving with a collection of one-of-a-kind prints.
A detailed worksheet will be provided, including:
- Step-by-step cyanotype printing instructions
- Techniques for printing on paper and fabric
- A summary of class content
All materials are provided, including your completed cyanotype prints.
Eco-Printing: Capturing Nature’s Imprint
September 27 | 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
Eco-printing is a technique that transfers the natural pigments of leaves and flowers onto textiles, creating delicate, one-of-a-kind patterns. Participants will learn about mordants, tannins, and heat-setting methods to achieve rich, lasting botanical prints on silk and paper.
A detailed worksheet will be provided, including:
- Instructions for eco-printing at home
- Best plants to use for lasting impressions
- A summary of everything covered in class
All materials are provided. Participants will leave with their own eco-printed silk scarf or bandana.
Natural Dyeing on Paper and Fabric: Crafting Color from Nature
October 11 | 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
In this hands-on class, students will explore the art of extracting color from plants to dye textiles and paper. You'll learn dye plant selection, extraction techniques, and how to achieve a range of natural hues. Participants will create fabric swatches and dyed paper sheets during class.
A detailed worksheet will be provided, including:
- Natural dye methods for use at home
- Best practices for fabric and paper dyeing
- A class summary and plant reference guide
All materials are provided. Participants are encouraged to bring a white cotton garment if they wish to experiment with dyeing their own piece.
Leaf Printing on Black Hoodies: Wearable Botanical Art
October 18 | 10:00 AM–1:00 PM
This final session teaches leaf printing techniques for fabric, allowing participants to create a custom-printed hoodie using foraged plant materials. You'll learn how to prepare leaves and apply designs that remain wearable over time.
A detailed worksheet will be provided, including:
- Instructions for recreating the technique at home
- Tips for sourcing and preparing fabric and plant material
- A summary of class content
All materials are provided, except for the hoodie. Please bring your own cotton hoodie (zip-up or pullover, in your preferred size and style).