Urban Dyeing – Designing Streetwear with Natural Dyes

In August, together with the zdi program, we ran a three-day holiday workshop at the Cosmaki Atelier. Three days full of color, youthful chaos, and creative energy. The students from grade 7 and up worked with T-shirts, socks, caps, and bags – creating their very own streetwear pieces.

Extracts, blossoms, bark, and leaves were used to create vibrant colors and lively patterns. Indigo, tannins, and plant-based dyes were tested, combined, and rediscovered. There was dyeing, experimentation, laughter, and questions – and amidst the many trials, a lively exchange took place: about chemistry and biology, about design, about sustainability, and the future of our clothing.

The three days were both intense and liberating. Between vats, dye baths, and dyeing techniques, countless pieces were created – so many, in fact, that in the end not just one studio wall was covered, but three clothing racks full of the finished products. A clear indication of just how productive and full of ideas the young people were.

The focus was not on the perfect garment, but on shared discovery: How does color change? What role do natural materials play? And what can we learn from the intersection of science and design for our everyday lives?

outlook

The workshop continues in autumn: From October 20th to 22nd, 2025, the next workshop will take place at the Cosmaki Atelier. Again three days, again natural dyes, again the connection between creativity and science.