Irena Boobyer Textile Paste Resist activity sheet
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Paste-resist Dyeing
This is a simple method of paste-resist dyeing developed for MOLLI by
Irena Boobyer. Whilst based on traditional African methods it uses commonly
available materials and tools. In paste-resist dyeing dye is prevented
from penetrating selected areas of cloth during the dyeing process. These
areas are created using flour-based paste and carry the patterns of the
design.
What you need
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 Tools:
- saucepan and cooker
- spoon
- plastic tubs
- craft knife
- scissors
- knife/spatula
- household iron and ironing board
- large sheet of paper
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 Materials:
- 250g plain flour
- 1 litre water
- 1tsp caustic soda
- thin plastic (eg: ice cream tub)
- washed calico
- poster paints
- fabric medium
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 Design
In Irena's workshop she encouraged the students to take design inspiration
from the fabrics on display in the Bosence Exhibition. Other ideas might
come from everyday signs and symbols. Simple designs are the most effective.
Remember that in paste-resist dyeing you will get a negative image of
your motif. Ideas were sketched on paper initially.
 Make
Paste
1. Mix the flour and water together in a saucepan.
2. Bring gently to the boil and simmer until the liquid becomes transparent.
3. Add the caustic soda and continue to simmer until the mixture becomes
honey coloured.
4. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly before pouring into
a plastic tub.
5. Allow to cool at room temperature.
Transferring your design ideas
The design ideas need to be transferred into a series of stencils and
tools which will be used to apply the paste to the calico.
Stencils and paste application
1. Make stencils and tools by cutting your motifs from thin plastic (eg:
ice cream tub plastic).
2. Place the calico on newspaper on a flat surface. Arrange the stencils
on the calico and apply the paste to the cloth through the stencils or
tools with a knife or spatula. Repeat this process until the cloth is
covered with the desired design.
3. Allow to dry thoroughly.
Painting and finishing
1. Mix together equal quantities of fabric medium and poster paint of
your chosen colour(s) in a plastic tub.
2. Apply to the fabric to achieve the desired effect.
3. Allow to dry for a second time before ironing with a cool iron (wool
setting) for 5 minutes through a sheet of paper. This will set the paint.
4. Wash the fabric to remove the paste and reveal your design.
5. Allow to dry and iron. Now you can make your unique fabric into whatever
you wish - a cushion cover or wall hanging perhaps.
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