Indigo Dip Dye Day
From Indigo Newbie to Volunteer
Three years ago, I was simply looking for something fun to do on a weekend when I stumbled across a listing for Indigo Dip Dye Day. I reserved a spot, joined a crowd of fellow indigo newbies, and instantly fell in love with the experience. I went back the next year, of course.
This year, I took the plunge - figuratively, because I’m not sure I could explain denim-blue toes to my husband - and volunteered.
What I learned is this: the Sacramento Collective for Textile Arts is filled with some of the most knowledgeable, creative, and generous people you’ll ever meet. The skills, patience, and passion the volunteers shared with participants were inspiring.
What Happens at Indigo Dip Dye Day?
When you walk through the gate of the Shephard Garden and RCenter, you enter a realm of creativity. You start by choosing what you want to dye from the selection at the check-in table. At the next station, volunteers teach you how to fold, clamp, and tie your piece to create your own design. Then you head to the dyeing station, where the magic truly begins.
When your fabric comes out of the vat, it’s green, not blue. As oxygen interacts with the indigo, it transforms into the gorgeous blues we all love - but you still can’t see your design yet.
The Great Reveal
The best moment of the entire process is the unveiling. Untying, unclamping, unfolding — this is what you came for. The ooohs and ahhs ripple through the crowd as each unique piece emerges. Every creation is its own kind of gorgeous.
What Else Happens?
Inside the building is the Art Elephant, a treasure trove of creative riches. Vendors offer tools, supplies, books, and all sorts of delights for your own projects. It’s a true treasure hunt.
What Do You Do Next Year?
You mark your calendar the moment the date is announced.
You sign up for Indigo Dip Dye Day.
You show up for Art Elephant.
And you let the creativity continue!
