S.02
Painting with mordant pastes - applying plant colours specifically to fabric
Mon 20 - Fri 24 July 2026
In this course we will explore a special technique of designing with plant colours: painting, writing and printing with mordant pastes. This method makes it possible to apply plant dyes specifically and permanently to fabrics made from plant fibres and opens up surprising possibilities. We will first learn how to make a mordant paste from natural raw materials and how to prepare it properly. Using brushes and simple stamps, the paste is applied to different fabric samples - we examine how different types of fabric react to the paste. We then colour the fabrics in plant dyes, which visibly fixes the painted areas. The technique is suitable for simple patterns as well as for free painting or writing. In addition to the practical application, we will learn how to prepare fabrics made from plant fibres for dyeing, how to use different colours and how creative effects can be achieved with simple means. At the end of the course, everyone takes home not only a solid basic knowledge, but also fabric samples that they have designed themselves.
Group of participants: Anyone with an interest in experimental work
Requirements: none
Number of participants: max. 12 people
Course language: German, English if required
Course times: Mon - Thu 9:00-12:30 and 14:00-17:30, Fri 9:00-12:30 and 14:00-16:00
Course fee: 420 euros, for students 380 euros (excluding material costs)
Course instructor: LISA HERMANN, Germany
Born 1992 in Thuringia, lives and works in Hanover; B.Sc. in Intercultural Communication and Sociology, M.A. in Science and Society, until 2020 research assistant at Leibniz University Hanover; since 2021 self-employed as an artisan in the field of environmentally friendly production of colours from plants, soils and minerals; active as a lecturer at several universities and in the German Colour Centre. Her work combines material-related research, creative practice and the communication of historical and contemporary knowledge.
More info: https://www.instagram.com/hermi.colours