Apostle Islands Kayak and Create Series: Natural Dyeing with Theresa Hornstein
Price
Activity Level
Between 2-3
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
Overview
Join us on a kayak tour of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore alongside a unique natural-dyeing workshop. Experience a series of sea kayaking, hiking day trips, and hands-on lessons from our Apostle Islands Base Camp. Day trip options await you on this popular Apostle Islands offering just north of Bayfield, Wisconsin. Enjoy delicious food, experience breathtaking sunsets over Lake Superior, and listen to waves crash along the shore — an outdoor adventure great for beginning sea kayakers and seasoned paddlers alike.
In this hands-on workshop, we bridge the gap between archaeological history and modern ecology. You will explore natural textile dyes that humans have used for centuries based on historical evidence, while specifically highlighting how to utilize local invasive species to create these stunning palettes.
Many plants we now consider “undesirable” were originally brought to this country for a purpose — including their dyeing potential. In this workshop, there is no guilt about peeling bark or pulling up entire plants to create our dye baths! Through this process, participants will learn:
- Plant Identification: Learn to spot local dye plants and invasive species in the wild.
- Dye Techniques: Master the preparation of dye baths, mordanting fibers, and the use of modifiers to shift hues.
- Natural History: Explore the ethical harvesting practices and the history of how these plants shaped textiles.
- Hands-on Creation: Experiment with different methods for obtaining “lichen purples” and “soft reds” from the world around you.
What you’ll take home: Each participant will receive eight 25-yard skeins of yarn to dye in the colors of their choice—enough for several small projects. Whether you are a history buff or a sustainable crafter, you will leave with the skills and sources needed for further exploration into the world of natural color.
About Your Host
After 35 years of teaching science, Theresa Hornstein now follows her passion for fiber arts and historic crafts. She currently teaches a range of fiber arts and natural dyes at folk schools and arts organizations around the region. Her latest book, Invasive Color: Using Invasive Species as Natural Dyes, was published in May 2025. Theresa serves on the board of Spirit of the Lake Community Arts and is a founding member of Nice Girls of the North, an artisan group.
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Bountiful meals prepared together in base camp kitchen
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Shared, spacious tents
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Welcome to Wilderness Inquiry’s beautiful base camp and get to know your host
Day 2 – Explore the Roman’s Point Sea Caves by kayak and dive into dyeing
Review paddling skills with your guides and embark on a paddle tour of the Roman’s Point Sea Caves. Return to base camp for lunch then dive into dyeing! With your trip mates, you’ll help set up dyepots, scour yarn, learn about the difference between preparing animal vs plant fibers, explore fast and fugitive dyes, and practice using mordants and modifiers for preparing fibers for dyeing.
Day 3 – Paddle the iconic Mawikwe Sea Caves at Meyer’s Beach and finish dye projects
After breakfast, paddle the iconic Mawikwe Sea Caves at Meyer’s Beach. After lunch, we’ll return to base camp and continue our exploration of natural dyes. This afternoon, the group will set up the final dyepots, finish our projects from yesterday, and discuss methods for testing new plants, care for naturally-dyed fiber/fabric, and how to safely dispose of dye materials.
Day 4 – Enjoy one final adventure before saying farewell to your trip mates
After breakfast, hike in the Cedar – Hemlock forest surrounding the basecamp before collecting your dried, hand-dyed materials. Enjoy one final Q&A with Theresa before departing after lunch.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.Â
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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