Take experimentation with natural dyes to the next level by getting hands-on with dyeing and printing with... bacteria!!

This beginner-friendly hands-on course will take you through the processes involved in growing pigmented bacteria and using their pigments in various creative applications. You will create your own textile swatches/artworks to take home.

What to expect:

The course will take place on 2 different days as time is needed inbetween the 2 sessions to allow the bacteria to grow.

Day 1 will consist of an introduction to pigmented bacteria and cover topics including:

• Why bacteria produce pigments

• Various species of pigmented bacteria and the unique colors they produce

• The conditions that affect bacterial growth and pigment production.

• Troubleshooting/Challenges involved in bacterial dyeing

This will be followed by demonstrations of various printing and dyeing methods, after which you will be able to select one or more methods to try yourself.

We will then move onto the practical elements inculding:

• Safely handling and culturing bacteria

• Sterile techniques and proper lab practices to prevent contamination

• Preparing growth media for the bacteria

• How to maintain bacterial cultures

• Creating designs to print/dye 

Day 2 will involve:

• Observing the growth from Day 1

• Recapping dyeing and printing methods

• Dyeing and printing textiles from your designs the previous week to take home

Who its for:

• People aged 16+

• This course is designed for anyone with an interest in combining science and art, regardless of prior experience. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore a new hobby, an artist or designer seeking to expand your creative toolkit, or a scientist looking to be more creative, this course is for you!

Dates: Dates announcing soon

Time: 11am-3pm on both days. The second day may be slightly shorter depending on the type of printing that is done.

Place: ASCUS Lab, Summerhall, EH9 1PL, Edinburgh

Price: Standard: £260 | *Concession: £247 | **Supporter: £270

Spaces: 10

*concessions: full-time students; unemployed persons, senior citizens, residents of Summerhall, and disabled persons. If you have booked as a concession you must provide proof of status on arrival.

** For those in a financial position to pay more. This ticket helps supports the subsidised spaces we offer

Spaces are limited!

*The course needs a minimum of 5 people registered in order to go ahead. In the event we need to cancel the event, you will receive a full refund.