Module: PLAY – Level 1 Fashion Design Students (Module Leader: Michalis Pantelidis)
Led by: Marisa Satsia
On Thursday 13/11, our Level 1 Fashion Design students took part in a vibrant and hands-on Natural Dyes Workshop, delivered by Marisa Satsia (@biocuriosities.lab), as part of the PLAY module in Michalis Pantelidis’ class. The goal of the session was to explore how everyday food waste can be transformed into beautiful, sustainable colour — proving that creativity can emerge from the simplest materials.
The workshop introduced students to the fundamentals of natural dyeing, using materials such as flower leftovers, avocado peels, pomegranate skins, and other organic waste. Through this playful and experimental approach, students learned how to see value in materials often considered disposable, embracing a circular and eco-conscious perspective within fashion design.
Step 1: Preparing the Fabric
Students began by preparing their textiles — working only with 100% natural fibres such as linen, cotton, and silk. Proper preparation such as scouring and mordanting allows the fabric to absorb colour more effectively, resulting in rich and long-lasting tones.
Step 2: Boiling the Leftovers
Next, students created their own natural dye baths by boiling food waste. As the mixtures simmered, colour slowly emerged from the materials, showcasing the unexpected beauty hidden in everyday scraps.
Step 3: Dyeing & Experimenting with Tie-Dye Techniques
With the dyes ready, students immersed their fabrics and began experimenting with tie-dye, folding, and binding techniques. Each sample developed its own patterns and textures, reflecting the students’ artistic choices and curiosity.
This workshop offered a meaningful blend of sustainability, experimentation, and playfulness, aligning perfectly with the spirit of the PLAY module. Students left not only with their own naturally dyed samples, but with a deeper understanding of how eco-conscious methods can enrich their creative practice.
Below, you can find photos from the session.
