Marie Johnson

Dyer of natural fabric, yarn and fibre – I make dyes from plants and use traditional methods from our colourful past.

Synthetic dyes were only invented in the last 200 years or so, before then EVERYTHING was coloured with dyes made from flora and fauna. Think of the Roman emperors in their purple cloaks, Beefeaters in scarlet jackets and the soldiers of the American civil war in their deep blue tunics; it’s a colourful history.

I’m intrigued by natural dyes and the colours that are hidden in the most inconspicuous plants. Dipping white fabric in indigo, carefully removing it and watching the vibrant colour change from green to turquoise to blue in front of your eyes. It’s just magic!