This workshop is full and in session.
The next registration opens December 9th at 9am (Pacific Time).
In September 2004 Maiwa launched its Maiwa School of Textiles. The school has become a place where knowledge is shared, techniques perfected and students, makers, educators and cultures meet.
THE INK MAKING WORKSHOP
Learn the process of making both pigmented and non-pigmented inks, including classics like iron gall ink as well as inks made from natural dyes like cochineal and lake pigments like weld.
In this workshop students will make a range of inks including water soluble and waterproof inks. The workshop will explore papers, and the basis of pointed pen (flexible) writing. Tim will generalize the procedure of ink making so that it may be applied to any organic or mineral matter. The workshop will also present a discussion of journaling, writing, books, and creativity.
21 documentary-style instructional videos.
Work with a range of materials including indigo, carbon black, cochineal, weld, gum Arabic and shellac.
Learn about ink making as a way to explore materials.
Consider the history of writing and ink and the future of your own creative practice
What do I need for this workshop?
We have prepared a kit for this workshop that may be purchased by enrolled students at a discounted kit rate. 100 of these kits will be available for opening day. Students will receive purchase instructions once enrolled (these kits are not available to the public). Download the SUPPLY LIST as a PDF for the INK MAKING WORKSHOP
Alternatively, students may source their own ingredients based on the supply list — either locally or from their favourite supplier. Students who already have a well-stocked studio can fill any gaps by purchasing locally or through maiwa.com.
What is the cancellation policy?
See our Terms of Use on maiwa.teachable.com for our cancellation and refund policy.
Meet your instructor:
TIM MCLAUGHLIN
The late Tim McLaughlin was interested in natural colour since he began working for Maiwa as a graphic designer in 2002. Together with Charllotte Kwon he wrote and co-directed two documentaries on natural dyes: Indigo: A World of Blue and In Search of Lost Colour: The Story of Natural Dyes. Some of Charllotte’s enthusiasm for natural colour rubbed off on him, and for several years he rethought the study of natural dyes in a fine-arts context: how to use natural dyes to make inks, paints, and pigments.
Tim also worked as a graphic designer and photographer. His portraits of Banjara women can be found in Textiles of the Banjara: Cloth and Culture of a Wandering Tribe, published in 2016 by Thames and Hudson and co-authored by Tim with Charllotte Kwon.
Tim received a Masters Degree in Philosophy of Science from the University of Western Ontario. He completed two residencies at the Banff Centre for the Arts. Tim taught the Ink Making course at the Penland School of Craft in 2023. His works have been exhibited at the Penland Gallery, North Carolina, and at a number of venues in and around Vancouver, Canada. Excerpts from his journals, ink projects, photography and other writing can be found at TMCL.CA. Ink making gets posted to instagram at @artisan_ink.
Legacy of an Ink Maker
Tim McLaughlin’s dedication to the art, craft, and science of natural dyeing and the joy and thoughtfulness with which he shared his knowledge with all of us will forever be remembered.
One of his many legacies will continue through his workshops he created for the Maiwa School of Textiles.
We want to assure you that the Natural Dye: Alchemy, Chemistry, Craft and the Ink Making Workshop will continue, honouring Tim McLaughlin’s legacy and the collective commitment we share to explore, create, and celebrate the wonders of natural dyeing.
While no one can replace Tim, we are dedicated to finding a way to carry on the teachings and knowledge he so creatively shared with all of us.
Tim McLaughlin was not only a teacher but also a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for us all. It is in his memory, and with great respect for the passion he instilled in each of us, that we keep the education part of his legacy alive at this time.
We understand the significance of this space in fostering creativity, understanding, exploration and a deeper connection to the the world of natural dyeing.
Let us remember Tim McLaughlin not only for the knowledge he shared but also for the sense of community and passion that flourished under his guidance. Thank you for your understanding, support and commitment to the continuation of the Natural Dye: Alchemy, Chemistry, Craft workshop and the Ink Making Workshop.