The Modern Alchemist

The forest is my sanctuary—where I find balance, healing, and inspiration. Even in the midst of the city’s hustle, I stay connected to nature through my work with natural dyes, which allows me to forage in my urban environment and bring the beauty of the earth into my creations.

Before synthetic dyes were developed just over 150 years ago, every artifact across the world, across all cultures, was naturally dyed. This deep connection to nature informs my approach to crafting textiles, drawing from ancient methods of fabric manufacturing and dyeing. My work is also influenced by my fascination with biomimicry in engineering and design, and the wisdom embedded in Indigenous Ways of Knowing.

Sustainability is the cornerstone of my work; I've found that traditional methods beautifully complement resource conservation. Through this practice, I strive to create a balance between art and science—a harmony found in nature itself.

“I go back to where the wisdom lives, in the woods…”

— Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass

My Process

High Quality Materials

I purposefully select 100% European linen fabric for its exceptional durability and soft handfeel, while also supporting ethical farming and labor practices. I sew with cotton thread so my products are plastic-free.

Custom Design

I employ ancient techniques such as Japanese shibori stitching (above) and Indian woodblock printing, along with handpainting and stencils to create unique patterns and pieces.

Natural Dyes

I utilize chemistry to dye all my items using natural materials, occasionally locally sourced from the kitchen! The dyes are durable, confirmed by archeological finds of dyed fabric.

FAQs

  • While I make every effort to ensure that the photos accurately represent the product's colors, please be aware that there may be slight variations between the actual product and the images.

    Natural dyeing is an artful and unpredictable process, which adds to its charm. Consequently, you may encounter minor variations in color tones.

    I meticulously select fabric that meets my quality standards, but it's important to note that linen is a natural material. Therefore, slight differences in fiber thickness and minor inconsistencies are to be expected.

    Measurements of finished items are approximations, as the fabric can shrink or grow with washing and ironing.

    SAFETY

    Metal salts, including the heavy metal iron, are used as mordants on some items and are not healthy to ingest, especially by babies and children. These metal salts may remain in trace amounts on newly purchased items. Avoid letting children put the fabric in their mouths! Feel free to inquire within about your purchase.

  • The fashion industry is one of the earth’s largest sources of pollution. It’s important to me to be transparent about my business practises, especially when I am doing my best to sell eco-conscious products.

    I composting organic matter in my local compost that amends our local community garden, and dispose of water in accordance to my local water management regulations.

    I take care to maximize the amount of fabric dyed in each batch, so as not to waste the precious dye from these special dye sources!

    When I forage local plants and mushrooms, I follow responsible foraging practises.

    Both the linen and cotton thread are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Certified.

    I sew many items myself, and to meet demand I have partnered with a sewist in Greece, who sets her own fees and delivery schedule. I chose this option rather than sourcing mass-produced, prefabricated linens so I can trace the ethics and material origins within the manufacturing, and to limit overproduction.

    Fabric scraps are repurposed or recycled by FABSCRAP's textile recycling program in Brooklyn, NY.

  • For first wash, consider washing separately.
    Wash with like colors. pH-neutral soap is optimal.
    Tumble-dry on low heat or air-dry.
    Color may temporarily change when ironing.

    Please note that natural dyeing may lead to color variation between batches, or color changes over the lifetime of use. Natural dyes fade faster in direct sunlight compared to synthetic dyes.

    Indigo dye: With vigorous friction, pigment may transfer onto other surfaces.

  • Seeking a specific color or pattern? Feel free to reach out for a personalized quote!

    For custom orders, delivery time is estimated to be 30 days. Each item goes through several steps before completion!

  • If the item is in stock, it will ship within 3 business days.

For wholesale inquiries, custom commissions, or any questions, please email selina@yourlocalforestlady.com for further information.