Workshops

MILKist workshops began as a result of our brand's activities in farming and harvested  seasonal goods like berries, pomegranates, herbs, edible flowers, leafy greens and walnuts; many that are also natural colourants. Natural dying has been practiced for centuries and Turkey has been one of the forefronts of this craft over generations and even has become to be known through 'Turkey Red', a historical method for producing a very bright and fast red colour on cotton. This strong color withstanding sunlight and frequent washing was obtained from the root of the plant Rubia Tinctorum (madder plant), which is thought to be of native Mediterranean origin. Different in process but similar in the use of natural colorants, traditional block printing (yazmacılık, in Turkish) is a significant part of the handcraft traditions and Turkey has raised many masters in this field. With its laborous method of textile printing, traditional block printing is protected by UNESCO as a world heritage. Not only the delicately carved wood components for patterns but the natural colorants used for vivid tones are still timeless inspirations for today's natural dyer or ink maker. Onion skins, walnut hulls and buckthorn are known to have been colorants for this art making. MILKist natural ink workshops take inspiration from this tradition and the ever providing geographical nature of Turkey, which shows traces of all 4 seaons. The natural ink workshops underline the seasons, the soil, the pH level of the earth and the changing vegetation depending on which part of the country's plant group we are working with.  The south is vibrant with oranges and yellow, the north is full of greens and blues, and the eastern south is rich in red. MILKist workhops have travelled to 14 cities in Turkey and reached over 2500 children for more creativity and color. Not only children but design and art students were also targetted because the nature of the workshop holds great importance on the understanding of this traditional craft. Natural colors form a genuine way to connect with the local landscape and traditional craft making which demands patience and understanding.