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| Artist Nguyen Van Tien (left) demonstrating the hammering technique to participants |
Vividness
Arranging leaves and flowers on a piece of cotton fabric, artist Nguyen Van Tien then spreads a layer of nylon over the surface. Holding the sheet steady with one hand, he gently taps the leaves and flowers with a hammer. With each steady strike, shades of green and red slowly seep into the fabric. After over 10 minutes of patient tapping, the colors of the leaves and blossoms are vividly imprinted onto the cloth.
Gently peeling away the nylon layer, the artist carefully removes the leaf skeletons and crushed petals with a pair of tweezers. As they are lifted off, delicate patterns begin to reveal themselves on the fabric. With their soft, natural tones and intricate veins, the leaves and blossoms appear like a tiny garden in full bloom across the ivory-white cotton surface.
Nguyen Van Tien said: “This is Tataki-zome, a traditional Japanese dying technique for creating patterns and colors on fabric. Using entirely natural materials, Tataki-zome takes advantage of the diverse colors and shapes of flowers, leaves, and branches, which are “printed” onto the cloth by gently hammering them. Although the process itself is not overly complicated, the results are unique and distinctive”.
To bring the beauty of nature onto fabric, aside from leaves, grass, and flowers, another essential element is stacks of naturally sourced cloth. The artist explained: “Not only do they share a similar natural origin, but the structure of natural fabrics is also particularly suitable for this technique. Such fabrics allow the colors to penetrate evenly, retain their vibrancy, and fade less over time. Moreover, Tataki-zome is considered a ‘green’ dyeing method. Using natural materials like cotton, linen, and silk fabrics creates harmony in the process while also minimizing environmental impact”.
Recycle
With this dyeing technique, almost any type of flower or leaf can be used. However, to ensure that their colors and shapes are imprinted most effectively on the fabric, careful attention must be paid to selecting suitable forms and hues, as well as arranging the leaves and blossoms thoughtfully.
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| A unique bag printed with chrysanthemum green leaves |
Mr. Tien explained: “The leaves and flowers commonly used for this dyeing technique are usually those with rich colors, non-toxic properties, and preferably high moisture content. Examples include fern leaves, dandelion leaves, chrysanthemum greens, roses, chrysanthemums, lantana flowers, and hibiscus. To achieve the clearest and most vivid prints, the hammer strikes on the leaves and flowers must be steady, rhythmic, and consistent in direction. Depending on personal preference, besides combining different flowers and leaves, fabric pieces featuring only flowers or only leaves are also popular for their distinctive and expressive characteristics”.
Taking part in the Tataki-zome hand-dyeing experience hosted by artist Nguyen Van Tien, Ms. Van Thi Thuy Tram created her own tote bag printed with chrysanthemum green leaves. She shared: When I first learned about this experiential workshop, I was very curious. It’s amazing that without any complicated machinery, just with gentle hammer taps, the green hues and delicate veins of the chrysanthemum leaves could be beautifully “transferred” onto the fabric. For me, this tote bag is not only a product but also a lovely green experience during these spring days”.
According to artist Nguyen Van Tien, in addition to soaking the fabric in an alum solution before hammering, the finished cloth can also be steamed or soaked in vinegar afterward to help preserve the colors of the flowers and leaves longer. “Beyond decorating fashion items, Tataki-zome can also be used to create artworks, make gifts, or even “refresh” recycled products. In that sense, the technique not only preserves the beauty of flowers and leaves but also contributes to environmental protection, spreading the charm of nature through an eco-friendly approach,” he added.