Bengala is an iron oxide that comes from the soil, and the origin of the word is from the Bengala area in India as the process was introduced in that area. In Japan, it has been used for coloring ceramics and lacquer ware. It also functions as protection against insect infestation and decay when it is used for staining wood siding for houses and furniture.

They are ancient colors, made from the oldest pigments, and have been used since the Old Stone Age. You can also see it in the Lascaux Caves in France and the Altamira Caves in Spain.

Bengala is a harmless and natural material. It has been used as a fabric dye and to dye organic products. It doesn’t need mordant nor heat. It is safe to use. Colors are limited but you may create your own color by mix them easily by hand.

Mihoko will send you a short video which tells you how to prepare your materials.

There will be skein of yarn, warp yarn, tote bags, t-shirt, cotton fabric are available for purchase, however, you may bring your own warp (up to 1 lb of material)

Please wear painters’ clothes or an apron, proper shoes, gloves (option), and a plastic bag to take the dyed wet materials home.

This year there are only limited colors available such as yellow, red, and green. The colors are subtle.