Curious about natural dyeing?
Learn how to collect and prepare plant materials and discover simple dyeing techniques that can be done with everyday kitchen items. Phong from Studio PCL will guide you through the process of dyeing and eco-printing onto natural fabrics, while sharing tips on fibre preparation, mordanting, and safety.
Come and learn a sustainable way to elevate your wardrobe and re-use common household leftovers by creating an ever-evolving palette of colour sources from the environment around you.
By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with your own eco-printed cloth, fabric swatches, and practical skills to continue experimenting with natural dyes at home.
All materials provided, no experience necessary.
Date/ Time
Saturday, 8 November | 12pm- 3pm
Ages
Suitable for all ages 12 years+
Children should be accompanied by an adult
Cost
General admission: $30 + booking fee
Blaktix: $20 + booking fee
About the Facilitator
Phong Chi Lai is a Naarm based textile artist specialising in contemporary quilting, and soft sculptures, using improv patchwork as a core part of his practice. He reimagines textiles not as passive materials tied to function or tradition, but as dynamic, evolving sites of contemporary artistic inquiry.
Originally a shoe designer/maker, Phong transitioned into textiles after working with social enterprises across Asia. These experiences reinforced his artisan ethos and commitment to sustainability. His work is both resourceful and deeply responsive to his surroundings.
The materials he uses—locally foraged natural dyes and reclaimed textiles—carry histories of use, place, and identity. Their layering becomes a form of storytelling: one that speaks to memory, fragility, and the transmission of knowledge through handwork. The process is intentionally slow and meditative. Within that slowness is a quiet urgency: a reclaiming of space and voice.
Phong has exhibited at The Wangaratta Art Gallery, School House Studios Gallery, Linden New Art Gallery, The Australian Tapestry Workshop, Fortyfivedownstairs Gallery, Mars Gallery, QuiltCon (US) and Partnership Editions (UK).
His work ‘Creating Character’ won Best Object Design at Design Fringe 2023, Phong was a 2024 Artist in Residence at The Australian Tapestry Workshop and a finalist in The Irene Davis International Tapestry Prize. He is currently the Braybrook Community-Engaged Artist in Residence supported by The Maribyrnong City Council.
Phong has collaborated with organizations including The Social Studio, The Melbourne Modern Quilt Guild, Melbourne Fashion Festival, Melbourne Design Week and Design Fringe to share knowledge and encourage creative engagement through textiles.
Instagram: @studiopcl
Terms & Conditions
Please note we are a cash-free venue.
Please note for a refund of ticket to be considered we require at a minimum 48 hours notice.
Please note general photography and short videos (for social media) may be recorded at this event for promotional use only and to document this event internally. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let a member of staff know once you arrive.
To plan your visit and for more information please click here.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Studio PCL
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