Wang Haoran (R), founder of the Shuise Dyehouse, explains dye plants to children on Aug 5. [Photo/VCG]

Children from Hekou community in Chongchuan district, Nantong got a chance to learn about a time-honored local dyeing technique at the Shuise Dyehouse in the district on Aug 5.

Situated within a building dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the dyehouse was founded in 2012 by Wang Haoran, who has for many years been devoted to the research and practice of traditional Chinese dyeing techniques.

The Shuise Dyehouse is the only one in China to grow its own dyeing plants, which cover an area of more than 2,000 square meters.

"Blue dye embodies peace and pureness – the aesthetic features of Jiangnan, the region south of the Yangtze River, while the white patterns on the clothing signify wishes of luck and happiness," Wang explained to the visitors.

He said that certain wild weeds found along the roadsides could be used as key ingredients in ancient dyeing, but many of them have been wiped out during urbanization.

During the tour, children also tried their hands at dyeing clothing.

"The water seems green, but generally turns blue during the dyeing process. It is magic!" said a participant.

Children try their hands at the ancient dyeing technique at Shuise Dyehouse in Chongchuan district, Nantong on Aug 5. [Photo/VCG]