From Soil to the Stich
This project explores the emotional and creative connection between people, plants, and gardens. Inspired by the soul-nourishing power of nature, I focused on commonly grown plants in Czech gardens—specifically those harvested in autumn—and their potential as natural textile dyes. The aim was to experiment with dyeing as both sustainable practice and creative expression, celebrating the imperfections and uniqueness of each result. From beetroot and onion skins to spinach, cabbage, and coffee, each plant offered unexpected tones and challenges. The dyeing process was hands-on, messy, and full of surprises—resulting in fabrics that are impossible to replicate, which makes them all the more special.
Completion Date
January 2025
Category
Editorial
Sector
Experimantation with natural dyeing
As the core of the project, I created a booklet titled From Soil to the Stitch, documenting each step: short historical context, personal dyeing experiments, and reflections on the color outcome. Each chapter centers around a plant and its seasonal character. To bring the fabrics to life, I designed and sewed a statement piece—a patchwork bomber jacket. Using zigzag stitches and cut-out details, the jacket embraces the beauty of irregularity, echoing the unpredictability of the dyeing process itself. This project is a reminder that natural dyeing, once a necessity, can still connect us to the rhythm of the seasons, the joy of growing, and the value of imperfection in both nature and design.
