In December, the Longhouse had its first indigo dyeing class with Heather Thomas. Indigo dyeing is a tradition is many parts of the world, relying on the oxidation of the indigo pigment to fix it inside textile fibres, turning the cloth blue. We watched as indigo powder was swirled into hot water, along with fructose and hydrated lime, and observed its transformation as it developed a coppery sheen and turned blue. There are all sorts of creative ways to form patterns on cloth – with marbles, thread, clamps, clips and so on. Participants were encouraged to have fun with the cotton bags and tea towels that were provided, and the range of patterns was astounding.