At Moda, we’re always on the hunt for inspiring techniques in the quilting and fabric world. Recently, we had the privilege of visiting one of our amazing designers, Debbie Maddy’s, studio in Graham, Texas. She welcomed us into the mesmerizing world of Shibori and indigo dyeing. Fabric designer Janet Clare joined us for a day filled with laughter, creativity, and discovery, all focused on the traditional Japanese art of Shibori. Learn all about her new book “Discover Shibori” and see some of her incredible designs in the video below!

A Day at Tiori Designs Studio

The visit to Debbie's studio was more than just a workshop; it was an immersion into the intricate techniques of Shibori, an art form rooted in patience and precision. As Debbie explained in her own words, "Shibori means ‘squeeze’ in Japanese," referring to the way fabric is folded, stitched, or bound to resist the indigo dye, creating beautiful and often unpredictable patterns.

From creating scarves and bandanas to experimenting with fabric for quilts, we found ourselves captivated by the process. Each technique—whether a simple fold or an intricate stitching pattern—produced stunning results that reflected both our individual styles and the collaborative spirit of the day.

Shibori Techniques in Debbie’s Own Words

Debbie guided us through various Shibori techniques, each offering unique designs and effects. One of the simplest yet most striking techniques involved folding fabric into triangles or squares, clamping with acrylic pieces, and immersing it in the indigo vat. The result? Beautiful star-like patterns and unique geometric designs, perfect for scarves, neckerchiefs, or even garment fabric.

Another technique Debbie demonstrated was the honeycomb pattern, achieved by wrapping the fabric tightly with cord. This method created intricate, honeycomb-like shapes that amazed us all when we unraveled the finished pieces. The honeycomb effect was surprisingly easy to create and instantly became a favorite among us.

Discovering Shibori at Home with Debbie’s Book

For those inspired to bring the art of Shibori home, Debbie’s book, Discover Shibori, is an excellent guide. It offers an accessible and detailed journey through this ancient craft, with step-by-step instructions, beautiful illustrations, and clear photographs that make it easy to follow along. From setting up an indigo vat to experimenting with various Shibori techniques, the book equips readers to create stunning, personalized designs. Debbie even includes tips for checking your vat and experimenting with household tools like clamps and acrylics, adding a fun, creative twist to each project.

Wrapping Up Our Day

Our day in Graham, Texas, ended with a collection of beautiful scarves, bandanas, and fabrics that we’ll treasure. More than that, we left with a deeper appreciation for the timeless art of Shibori dyeing and the rich indigo hues that now carry the memory of our laughter and creativity.

Whether you’re looking to try something new or to expand your creative repertoire, Shibori dyeing offers a world of possibility. We hope our experience inspires you to explore this beautiful craft—and maybe even create your own indigo-dyed masterpiece.

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