Dyeing Arts - Marbling

The craft of marbling dates back to the 12th century, first references said to have been artisans in Japan but most likely dates back even further. However, the true origins of this mesmerising technique are a bit of a mystery, as it was kept secretive and rarely documented, making it all the more fascinating.

The art of marbling has been seen throughout the world: Italy, Persia, Türkiye, India, and more. They say the mysterious skill was shared through trading routes such as the Silk Road, developing and changing as people from different countries explored the techniques.

Today, Marbling is on the red list of endangered crafts, which is wild because nothing is more captivating and visually appealing than the one-of-a-kind uniqueness and vibrant colours it can produce. However, the process is very involved and time-consuming and takes a while to perfect.

Unlike replicable digital prints that can be mass-produced each marbled piece cannot be copied. No two designs are EVER the same. Each design is entirely organic, like a snapshot of a moment in time. The techniques I use are most similar to that of Turkish Ebru (meaning "cloud").

The mesmerizing process of marbling involves carefully floating pigments on a water-based solution, then delicately manipulating the patterns with various tools. It's a dance between the artist and the medium, where each movement creates a unique and captivating design.

As a slow fashion brand, I'm committed to preserving this endangered craft and sharing its beauty with the world. Each piece I create is a testament to the rich history and artistry of marbling, a true labour of love that celebrates the imperfections and individuality of handmade craftsmanship.

Don't let this dyeing art go extinct. Embrace the captivating allure of marbling and support the artisans who are keeping this ancient tradition alive.