Eco-Printing with Kirsty MacDonald - The Barn

Discover the foundations of eco printing in this hands‑on introductory workshop with artist Kirsty MacDonald. Together we’ll explore how different natural fibres respond to plant colour, comparing the behaviour of wool and cotton and learning why each requires its own preparation, mordant, and handling.

We’ll experiment with wrapping and bundling methods, discuss which plants give the clearest results, and consider thoughtful, ethical approaches to foraging. This workshop is designed to give you confidence, curiosity, and a strong technical foundation, whether you are completely new to eco printing or looking to deepen your material knowledge. You’ll leave with your own printed samples, practical skills, and inspiration for continuing your explorations.

Kirsty MacDonald is an interdisciplinary artist based in Aberdeen whose work centres on plant colour and sustainable material practices. In 2024, she received the QEST Radcliffe Trust Emerging Maker Award, which allowed her to dedicate a full year to developing her skills in natural pigments, inks and dyes.
She creates sculptural, paintings and installation-based work informed by research into Scottish culture, folklore and plant knowledge.