Take a visual field trip stopping at places where the production of silk is the oldest and where growing and harvesting silkworms, spinning, weaving, and dyeing techniques have remained the same for three to 5,000 years!  Follow the process from silkworms all the way to finished cloth.  Then, experiment with the simplest tools and resist-dyeing technique to decorate a strip of silk. 
 
OPTION
An experimental option is possible of unraveling silkworm cocoons depending on our supply and the size of your group.  If you are raising silkworms at your site, even better, you're automatically in!
 
Best for ages 6 years to adult
90 minutes

BUILD A SERIES WITH:
Black American Quilts
Japanese American Internment Art
Fibers & Fingers
Inca: Llamas & Looms
India: Palm Leaf Books
Japan: Craft & Folk Art
Let's Dye
Shadow Puppets
Southern China

Photo credit 1: Gorkaazk