What the Family Studies?
What the Family Studies?
How Plant Dyes, Teaching, And Upcycling Built A Creative Life
What happens when a high school sewing class plants a seed that grows into a life of craft, community, and sustainable fashion? We sit down with textile artist Julia Massey to trace the arc from hemp baby clothes and block printing to eco printing, plant dyes, and an upcycling practice that rescues garments and reimagines colour with leaves, flowers, and time. Along the way, we unpack how curiosity matured into a values-driven studio and why customers light up when they learn that a goldenrod field can become a dress they’ll love for years.
For educators, we map classroom-ready approaches to eco printing and repair, plus practical ways to connect fibre science, ethical sourcing, and consumer choices to real-world projects that students can finish and wear.
We also take on the hard questions behind sustainability. Does the world need more clothes? How do we weigh organic fibres against fashion waste? Julia’s rejuvenated line—thrifted pieces mended and plant-dyed—offers one answer: keep materials in use, add story and skill, and show people how to love what they already own.
If you’re ready to learn more about Julia's work, workshop schedules and other resources be sure to check out her website https://juliamasci.com/. If this conversation sparked ideas for your classroom or your closet, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more makers and educators can find us.
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