Natural Dye workshop by Abha Aggarwal

Monday, 22 August,2022 - Natural Dye expert Abha Aggarwal visited Indian Institute of Art & Design (IIAD) to deliver a masterclass in getting vibrant patterns and design using simple, natural products.

Our Fashion Business Management students are consistently provided with opportunities to learn from industry experts. One of the prominent design schools in Delhi - IIAD, home for many design aspirants was visited by Abha Aggarwal - an expert with a vast amount of knowledge and experience in using natural materials and natural dyes, skilled at producing the brightest of shades utilising simply natural products.

Abha explained about natural dye processes to the students, teaching traditional and sustainable techniques which reduce the impact of the fabric dyeing process on the environment.

Each student was provided with a kit which included natural products used for dying like cutch, madder, alum mordant, iron modifier and fabric. The workshop introduced techniques of eco-printing and bundle dying where students used various dying processes to get those vibrant and unique patterns. She also taught students the difference between natural dye and synthetic dye and the impact it can have on our environment. Abha also discussed the fashion as well as the marketing aspect of the natural dyes. Students enjoyed the process thoroughly as they deep dived into the ocean of knowledge about natural dyes.

The masterclass convinced all the students that natural dyes needed a big boost andthe process should be used extensively to dye fabrics and apparels. Such natural dye workshops should happen more often so as to spread awareness in young budding designers of tomorrow and support sustainable products in the fashion industry. Sustainability is very high on the agenda of the Indian Institute of Art and Design. TheInstitute will continue to advocate sustainability and keep organising workshops in future to make students environmentally conscious.

“Together we can save the environment and leave the planet a better place to live for the future generations”

Abha, a Fashion Design graduate from Pearl Academy, Delhi started her entrepreneurial journey with her label - Romrom. She has been travelling extensively and lived in many clusters around India to gain knowledge and invaluable lessons to keep the craft alive for generations. Romrom is a healthier lingerie and apparel line with natural handcrafted textiles, born in 2022. By using natural fabrics and plant dyes, the label is about reimagining lingerie and intimate wear as timeless pieces that echo the source that come from the bounties of nature.