Bandhani Tie-Dye

Tie-dye is a common technique with an almost magical element of surprise when the twisted, knotted piece is unravelled and the colors and patterns are revealed.
Bandhani (means 'to tie' and is the origin of the word bandana) fabrics are knotted with hundreds of little knots, sometimes at random, sometimes along a washable blue stencil. Traditionally the women tie the knots, and whisper secrets or share stories while they tie them. Later when the fabric has been dyed (by men) and unknotted, by simply tugging it open, the woman (often a bride) who wraps herself in it is essentially cloaking herself in women's experiences. The knots are made by pinching little bunches of fabric together and then wrapping thread around the bunch many times, some women can tie as many as 700 knots in a day. When Bandhani are sold, the knots are left in so the buyer can be sure she isn't purchasing a fake.
Introducing this technique as part of any tie-dye lesson or activity would enrich the experience of preparing the fabric to be dyed. These secret-bearing knots could be one option alongside more common twists and rubber bands. In fact, introducing the idea of attaching secrets or stories (by giving voice to them as you work) to any kind of tie-dye preparation be it regular strings or rubber bands, thereby infusing the end product with such importance, would be a wonderful and memorable practice. In keeping with the communal gift nature of the process though, an entire class could work together on a large piece of fabric, while reminiscing about childhood memories or experiences from that year in school. The resulting fabric could be given then, as a gift to a departing teacher, or other important figure from their shared experience.