RiverKnits Variegated Yarn Dyeing Workshop

A selection of hand dyed variegated yarns

Ever fancied dyeing your own yarn but not sure where to start? Or perhaps you’re on the look out for a fun day out with your yarn-loving friends? Join Becci in the RiverKnits dye studio and create your own personalised variegated colourway.

You will cover the basics of yarn dyeing with specific attention to techniques for variegated yarn. All equipment is provided on the day. 200g of un-dyed Bluefaced Leicester wool yarn is included in the cost of the course, although you will have the opportunity to purchase more before the day starts.

We will provide hot and cold drinks and biscuits during the day. Please bring your own lunch.

Book your place

RiverKnits Variegated Yarn Dyeing Workshop

A selection of hand dyed variegated yarns

Ever fancied dyeing your own yarn but not sure where to start? Or perhaps you’re on the look out for a fun day out with your yarn-loving friends? Join Becci in the RiverKnits dye studio and create your own personalised variegated colourway.

You will cover the basics of yarn dyeing with specific attention to techniques for variegated yarn. All equipment is provided on the day. 200g of un-dyed Bluefaced Leicester wool yarn is included in the cost of the course, although you will have the opportunity to purchase more before the day starts.

We will provide hot and cold drinks and biscuits during the day. Please bring your own lunch.

Book your place

Introduction to Natural Dyeing – Textile Workshop by Vicki and Lorna

Discover the fascinating world of textile transformation in this workshop!

Learn to dye cloth the natural way at this unique mobile workshop available around the Northampton and Milton Keynes area. You’ll learn how to select and prep fabric for natural dyeing, experiment with modifiers to create various shades, and work with two dye vats created from food waste and historic dye plants. Plus, you’ll dye your very own organic cotton cushion cover or fabric metre to take home.

Don’t worry if you’re new to natural dyeing – this workshop is designed for beginners and is a welcoming space to learn and experiment.

During the workshop, you’ll receive an introduction to plant dyeing and hot extraction methods for creating a dye vat. You’ll also try out different folding techniques and select patterns for your cushion cover, all while sipping tea and enjoying some cake.

  • Learn how to select and prepare fabric for natural dyeing
  • Dye fabric sample squares to take home; experimenting with different shibori/tie dye techniques
  • Experiment with making different colour tones using natural mineral modifiers
  • Use two hot extraction dye vats (made with food waste and historic dye plants) to dye your samples and fabric.
  • Dye an organic cotton cushion or 1m length of organic cotton fabric to take home with you

At the end of the session, you’ll unfold your newly dyed creations, witness the transformative process, and leave with your personalised cushion cover/fabric and folded samples – unique textiles to cherish.

unravel… a festival of yarn

Unravel logo

unravel is a much-loved yarn festival presented twice a year at Farnham Maltings

Each edition of unravel brings together a vibrant community of knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and makers for several days of textiles, creativity and connection. While both events share a focus on high-quality materials, thoughtful making and independent craft, they offer two very different experiences:

unravel… a festival of yarn
Held every February, the renowned festival runs over three days and features a packed programme of bookable workshops, free talks, exhibitions and a diverse marketplace of exhibitors from across the UK and beyond.

The next edition will take place on Friday 13 – Sunday 15 February 2026. Tickets will be available from October 2025. Exhibitor applications have now closed and the programme will be announced closer to the time.

RiverKnits Open Day 2025

RiverKnits Open Day 2025 Sunday 18th May 10am - 4pm

Join us for a fun day at the RiverKnits studio at the historic Royal Ordnance Depot in Weedon Bec, Northamptonshire. We will have fabulous exhibitors, local sheep, demos, cake and more..!

Meet The Exhibitors »

Programme

SHOW OPENS – 10 am

DEMO: Meet the Sheep – ALL DAY

DEMO: Northants Spinners Weavers & Dyer’s Guild – ALL DAY

TALK: Refining Crochet by Fay Dashper-Hughes – 1pm

MUSIC: Join us for an informal folk jam – 3pm

SHOW CLOSES – 4 pm

Catering

We have local coffee roasters Yellow Bourbon serving hot and cold drinks, and freshly baked cakes available all day.

There is also a micro-brewery on site and lots more to see and do!

Venue Info »

Tickets

Please do book in advance. It’s a big help for our caterers.
Children (under 16) and carers may attend free of charge. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.