Botanical Dyeing Workshop

Step into the fascinating world of natural colour and learn how people created vibrant dyes long before synthetic colours existed. Taking place at Woodend in the Macedon Ranges, and over a warming cuppa, we’ll explore the history of natural pigments and their use in textiles and art, before getting hands-on with a range of creative dyeing techniques.

Using locally sourced plants and seasonal materials, you’ll create your own flower print, bundle-dyed fabric and natural dye bath, uncovering the surprising beauty and colour that can be found in the winter landscape. This workshop is suitable for beginners and anyone curious about sustainable craft, colour, and creativity.

Following this workshop, a four-week short course will be offered for those wishing to continue to explore natural colour. Please visit Introduction to Colour Short Course for more information.

Who will be leading the session?

Pen Pender is a self-taught botanical dyer with a background in floristry and gardening. For the past six years, she has been exploring the art of natural dyeing from her home in Macedon, where she tends a thriving dye garden and regularly experiments with colours sourced from plants and flowers.

Passionate about sustainable creativity and lifelong learning, Pen loves sharing the process of botanical dyeing and the beautiful, often surprising colours that can be achieved using natural materials.

Workshop Information

This stand alone workshop will run on Wednesday 5 August 2026 between 1pm and 3pm.

The workshop will take place in the Undercroft of the Woodend Neighbourhood House. The room is to the rear of the House, and can be accessed by the path to the left-hand side of the House, or via the gates next to the Skate Park, off Margery Crescent.

The cost for the two-hour workshop is $40.00 per person, with all materials provided.

Please note that the workshop requires a minimum of 5 paid participants to proceed. If this minimum number is not reached, a full refund will be provided. The workshop will have a maximum of 10 participants.