Main Lesson: Fiber Arts and Community Project with Ms. Sonja

September 21-24, 2026

Last week, we continued our study of the indigo plant, covering topics including Taxonomy, chemical properties, and historical application. We revisited some topics that were covered last year such as the pH scale and volume conversion which are applicable to our current project. It was wonderful to see the students pulling from their own knowledge base in real time, and realizing that math and science can play a significant role in artistic pursuits.  

We are using a dye recipe called a Fructose-Indigo Dye Vat (3-2-1 method) in which all ingredients must be measured with a specific ratio formula. The students measured each ingredient (in grams) with care in preparation for setting the dye vats, which we will mix and set on Monday.

This week we will continue with practicing Shabori dye folds, and dyeing textiles. If they haven’t yet, please have your student bring in their textile pieces from home, as this will be their opportunity to put them in the vats. 

Lastly, please support your students in remembering to bring in their homework folder every Monday. The vocabulary words they are working with, are pertinent to our work and it is helpful if they have an understanding of these words and concepts for their own learning process. 

If any questions arise, or you need to get in touch, please email me at sonjaphoenix@protonmail.com or text/call 503-484-6605

Warmly,
Sonja