About this episode
Send us a text In this episode of the Sewing Social podcast, Gemma Daly sits down with textile designer and natural dye expert Jess Chan for a vibrant conversation full of creativity and inspiration. Jess opens up about her artistic journey, from the sparks that first ignited her passion to the path that led her to teaching and working with naturally dyed textiles. She dives into the beauty and complexity of natural dyes, busts some common myths, and explains how she thoughtfully sources her materials. Jess also shares stories from her eye-opening artist residency in Mexico, how she juggles life as a maker and entrepreneur, and offers thoughtful advice for anyone curious about stepping into the world of natural dyeing. Key Takeaways: Jess Chan is the founder and designer of Jess Chan Textiles, specialising in naturally dyed textiles. Her creative journey began with a love for drawing and silkscreen printing. Jess studied printed textiles and surface pattern design at Leeds College of Art and natural dyes at Chelsea College of Art. She enjoys the methodical nature of dyeing and the element of surprise it brings. Natural dyes can produce a wide range of colours, including vibrant pinks and earthy tones. Jess forages for local plants like Buddleia, nettles and walnuts for her dyeing process. Common misconceptions about natural dyes include the belief that they are only "muddy" colours and not colourfast. Silk and wool are her preferred fabrics for dyeing due to their beautiful results. Jess teaches silkscreen printing and natural dyeing at Loughborough University. Her artist residency in Mexico provided her with in-depth training in traditional dyeing methods. Follow me: Instagram : @thesewingsocialpod @thedalythread Tiktok : thesewingsocialpod If you've enjoyed this episode and appreciate the work I'm doing, please Tip me on Ko-fi : https://ko-fi.com/thesewingsocialpod Also, feel free to get in touch - you can text the show (available through your podcast provider on each episode) or email: thesewingsocialpod@gmail.com Guest details: Website: www.jesschantextiles.com Instagram: @jesschantextiles In person events coming up: Paperdolls Handmade (Digbeth, Birmingham) 29th-30th November Craft Fair Contemporary (Nottingham) 5th-7th December Craft Fox Market (Kings Cross, London) 13th December Winterfolk Festive Market (Nottingham) 14th December Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jess Chan and Her Journey 03:41 Exploring Natural Dyes and Their Unique Qualities 08:46 Inspiration and Seasonal Influences in Design 14:17 Common Misconceptions About Natural Dyes 18:49 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge in Textiles 22:01 Artist Residency in Mexico: A Transformative Experience 27:46 A Week in the Life of Jess Chan 30:09 Product Offerings and Future Aspirations 33:58 Getting Started with Natural Dyeing 38:01 Fun This or That Game