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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explore pattern through Shibori techniques.

      Key learning points

      1. Dyeing is the process of applying colour to textiles, fibres, or materials using natural or synthetic dyes
      2. There are many dyeing traditions, including: Shibori in Japan, Batik in Indonesia and Tie-dye in Africa and the US
      3. By using natural dyes you can achieve a range of colours
      4. You can use resist techniques to create patterns in the materials

      Keywords

      • Shibori - a traditional Japanese method of folding, twisting, or binding fabric before dyeing

      • Resist - when parts of the fabric resist dye due to being tightly folded or bound

      • Pattern - a design that repeats

      • Dye - coloured substances used to change the colour of materials like fabric

      Common misconception

      Tie-dye is a modern European technique

      Tie-dye or similar forms, such as Bandhani from India, originates from many different regions around the world and exists in multiple forms and styles. Tie-dye is a global textile technique that has existed for thousands of years.

      Teacher tip

      Pupils should wear plastic gloves and aprons to protect skin and clothing. Check for latex allergies before distributing gloves.

      Equipment

      Elastic bands or pegs, white or light coloured fabric, strong cardboard, a bowl, large metal spoon, turmeric powder, gloves and protective aprons.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What is Shibori dyeing?

      A painting technique using fabric
      A way of cutting fabric into shapes
      Correct answer: A Japanese method of folding, twisting or tying fabric before dyeing it
      A machine process that prints patterns onto fabric

      Q2.
      What is the main purpose of tying, folding, or clamping fabric in Shibori dyeing?

      To make the fabric softer
      To help the fabric dry faster
      Correct answer: To make patterns using a resist technique
      To keep the fabric in one place

      Q3.
      Shibori is a Japanese dyeing technique where fabric is folded, twisted, clamped or _______ to create patterns.

      Correct Answer: tied

      Q4.
      What is a pattern?

      A design that is geometric
      Correct answer: A design that repeats
      A circular design
      A painting technique

      Q5.
      You might find Shibori patterns on clothing, cushions, or ...

      Correct Answer: fabrics, materials

      Q6.
      Match the terms with their correct meanings in Shibori dyeing:

      Correct Answer:Resist,Method that blocks colour from reaching part of the material

      Method that blocks colour from reaching part of the material

      Correct Answer:Dye,A coloured liquid used to stain or tint fabric

      A coloured liquid used to stain or tint fabric

      Correct Answer:Fabric,The material being dyed, such as cotton or silk

      The material being dyed, such as cotton or silk

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What are dyes used for in fabric art?

      To make fabric stronger
      To cut fabrics into shapes
      Correct answer: To colour fabric
      To dry fabric faster

      Q2.
      What is a natural dye?

      A dye made in a factory
      A colour that appears naturally on fabric
      Correct answer: A dye made from plants, insects, or minerals
      A special kind of paint for walls

      Q3.
      Natural dyes can be made from plants, insects and ...

      Correct Answer: minerals, rocks, spices, earth

      Q4.
      Put the steps of tie-dyeing in the correct order:

      1 - Choose your fabric
      2 - Fold or tie the fabric
      3 - Apply the dye to the fabric
      4 - Rinse and dry the fabric

      Q5.
      Folding the fabric helps to create in resist dyeing techniques like Shibori.

      Correct Answer: patterns

      Q6.
      Why do you use elastic bands in Shibori dyeing?

      To hold the fabric in place while it dries
      To decorate the fabric
      Correct answer: To resist the dye and help create patterns
      To stretch the fabric before dyeing

      To help you plan your 8 art and design lesson on: Exploring dyeing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...