Aizome Shibori

While in Japan, I had the privilege of learning about Aizome, or traditional indigo dyeing, and Shibori techniques. This indigo dye is naturally extracted from the leaves of the Indigofera tinctoria plant in only a few places in Japan and has a history going back over 800 years.

Also known as 'Japan Blue' the vast range of shades that can be coaxed out of a vat of this dye is stunning. A quick dip creates a soft light blue while further dips can create a deep, rich blue that brings to mind blue jeans, the ocean depths and warm, dark summer nights.

Materials: indigo dye (natural, derived from Indigofera tinctoria leaves) and cotton homespun.