As part of her PhD research at the Australian National University, Blake has studied 100 plants from Canberra's inner north and created a unique dye diary.

With its subtle gradations of tones and hues, the comprehensive collection is as striking as it is informative.

"You can get some really good colours actually," Blake said.

"There's a big range."

Far from being confined to brown and green, nature's palette affords a surprising array of options, from reds and purples to "lots of yellows".

Blake said she planned to use acacia flowers and eucalypts for the workshop, which will be held on Tuesday, August 25, from 6pm to 8pm.

She will give a general introduction to plant dyeing and the different techniques available, as well as a short history of the practice.

Blake urged those attending the session to bring an item for colouring as she would be showing people how to make and apply the plant-based dyes, giving hands-on help as needed.

"This is a rare opportunity to learn the art of plant dyeing from one of Australia's celebrated textiles artists," said the Canberra Environment Centre's sustainability officer, Bess Kenway.

Not only has Blake's artwork appeared in exhibitions across Australia, but she has also been recognised in France, Britain, Japan and New Zealand.

Last year, she was one of the Craft ACT artists in residence at Namadgi National Park.

Her practice includes woven techniques and stitching, with her textured designs on paper and fabric often resembling little patchworks.

For her Dye Diary project, she documented the thousands of colours she extracted from Canberra's plants, recording the variations in pieced fabric samplers and woven tapestries.

Materials were even pressed and presented on paper and she charted an annual cycle of dye production.

"I am concerned with exploring ecological issues and the complex interconnections between humans and nature," Blake said.

■ More information is available at ecoaction.com.au. Places at the workshop are limited.