Anita Allen

I am thrilled about being a part of the Dharma website. I have a website created for my business, so this is going to force me to get that deed done.

I run my business out of my basement studio in Indianola, Iowa. My day job is facilitating a gifted and talented resource room for K-5th grade children at a fine arts academy, which is a part of the Des Moines Public Schools.

My signature shirts have been very popular. One, I call "Necklace of Hearts." Others are "An Apple for the Teacher" and "A Mother's Heart of Hearts."

I do a lot of team, school club, and reunion groups.

As a hispanic woman who took up tie-dyeing while a college student at UC Davis, CA, I have enjoyed the craft since the late 60s. I started my business, Colores, after being introduced to the Procion dyes in 1989.

I prefer to use bright, vivid colors and to create very precise symmetrical designs.

I sell and demonstrate this craft every August at the Iowa State Fair, where I have been an artist-in-residence since 1989.

My husband Jim is the "muscles" behind our business. He assists in hauling my wares whenever needed. During the school year, I am only able to work evenings and weekends, but my teaching job allows me to be creative all summer.

I offer workshops in my studio and am currently creating lamp worked glass beads that compliment my tie-dye creations.

Anita Allen,
Colores