BEGINNER WORKSHOP

Come and learn the basic principles of linocut printmaking in the friendly environment of my kitchen studio, using professional equipment. In this 5-hour workshop, you will be working on one or two A6 (or 10cm square) designs with the aim of producing a print that you are proud of. I will guide you through all the steps from planning, transferring, carving and proofing, to printing your design. We'll explore different ways of markmaking on lino, as well as different printing techniques and ink effects.

No printmaking experience required, and people of all ages and artistic abilities are welcome. Even if you think you can't draw, you WILL be able to print!  I can adapt my course for family groups with older children and special educational needs. If you have any access needs, please do contact me and I will do my best to adapt my equipment to your requirements.

All the tools and equipment will be provided. The workshop is designed to teach you the basic techniques for linocut printing, with plenty of time for experimentation and asking questions, so that you will leave with more skills and can take printmaking further if you wish. You will take home all the prints and blocks you make on the day. I will also provide you with an information sheet on basic printmaking equipment.   [*I will not provide any tools to take home*]

What you'll use: 
- traditional art lino,  10cm square or A6 size
- carving tools (Pfeil, Japanese, flexcut)
- soft and hard brayers
- professional oil-based inks
- printmaking paper
- a Victorian cast-iron book press and a Woodzilla lever press
- hand printing equipment - bone folders, wooden spoons, bamboo barens

What to bring: 

You are very welcome to bring your own designs / sketches, and there are vintage books and illustrations here for for inspiration should you need it.  If you already own carving tools it's a good idea to bring these along so you learn new skills with familiar tools as well as those used in the workshop.  Please wear old clothes or a craft apron, because ink does get everywhere! I will provide tea, coffee and biscuits but please being your own packed lunch.

The Practicalities: 

Days: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and occasionally Saturdays - we'll arrange a day to suit

Time: 9:30am to 2.30pm (5 hours)

Location:  central Maidstone, Kent (address will be provided upon booking)
Parking: Free parking on the road (please allow time to find parking spaces).  
Refreshments: Tea / coffee / biscuits provided throughout the workshop. Please bring your own lunch.