Meet The Maker: Peter Tondryk

We are pleased to introduce you to Peter Tondryk, multimedia artist, coffee enthusiast and the creative force behind Dark Water Tie Dye, one of Veer Collective’s top sellers. We caught up with Peter to learn what drew him to working with textiles and to see what else he gets up to in his Sarasota studio.

What led you to working in tie-dye? 

I spent many years as a silversmith before shifting my focus to dyeing textiles. While I absolutely love making jewelry, I was looking for an art form that didn't require so many tools and expensive materials —something more accessible to start. After my kids and I did a few tie-dye projects at home, I got such a thrill from the process that I became eager to explore it further. I quickly dove into learning more, experimenting with new techniques, and discovered that this familiar art form can be approached in unique ways to create colors and patterns that aren't often seen elsewhere.

What do you like most about the process?

I really enjoy how the process allows for spontaneity up to a certain point—after that, what’s done is done, and you have to step back and wait for 24 hours to see the results. There’s something exciting about that, almost like opening a gift when I wash and untie my work. It’s also fascinating how, no matter how much you try to control it, the dye will eventually do its own thing. It’s all part of the unpredictable beauty of the process.

One of our favorite Dark Water products you make are your bathrobes, I LIVE in mine...it's so soft and had the best drape. Is there a product in particular that you like making most? Or is there a surprising best seller? 

I still love making T-shirts; to me, they’re the most iconic item to tie-dye, and they were the first thing I tried as a kid. I feel like most people, at some point in their life, have experimented with tie-dyeing a T-shirt, so there's an instant connection people have with the piece. I enjoy creating T-shirts that are elevated with unique color palettes and patterns, often inspired by different cultures and elements of nature. I believe my work offers a fresh perspective compared to traditional tie-dye, with a more refined and thoughtful approach.

Which materials fascinate you besides textiles?  Are there any mediums that you have not worked with but would like to try?

I've always been captivated by glassblowing. There's something so enchanting and inviting about watching molten glass being blown and shaped into something beautiful. It has a magical quality that draws me in every time.

Do you have a dream project that you would like to realize someday?

I would love to collaborate with a textile or clothing company to have my patterns reproduced and featured on a variety of products. It would be exciting to see my designs come to life in different forms and reach a wider audience.

What have you learned about yourself from crafting your brand?

Being confident in my own aesthetic has been key. I find that when I create something just for myself, I’m at my most creative and often produce my best work. Over time, I’ve learned to listen more closely and trust my inner voice about what feels right, both in terms of design and the approach to my artwork.

What hobbies or interests keep you busy when you’re not creating your garments?

I’m also passionate about instant and film photography, as well as painting with watercolors. I often do color studies with watercolor, and I enjoy manipulating the medium in much the same way I would work with dye on fabric. Going to the beach and practicing meditation are also essential for keeping me inspired and balanced.

What does the word “veer” mean to you?

Veer to me means to stray off the path and see where your exploration may take you. I have a lot of Virgo energy so it’s good for me to let go of control sometimes and Veer.