Catharine Ellis has been a weaver and a dyer for over 40 years.  After three decades of teaching the Fiber Program at Haywood Community College in North Carolina, she is now dedicated to studio work, focusing on natural dye processes.  She also does specialized, selected teaching, in the U.S. and overseas.  Recent projects include teaching natural dyeing in Guatemalan through Mayan Hands.

Catharine is the originator of the woven shibori process and author of the instructional book Woven Shibori (Interweave Press, 2005). Her textile work is shown extensively in exhibitions and shows. She is currently working collaboratively with the Oriole Mill in North Carolina to produce specialty Jacquard fabrics.

Catharine is actively involved in the Surface Design Association, the World Shibori Network, and is a founding member of the Southeastern Fiber Educators Association. She has served on the boards of Penland School of Crafts and the Center for Craft, Creativity, and Design, and established the Western North Carolina Textile Study Group in 2012.