Intro to Block Printing (Aug 5-6)

The class will work with a 10” x 8” block in this 2-day workshop. We will use Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) as our matrix material and will use traditional woodcut tools for carving. Participants will learn tool usage, carving techniques, tool sharpening techniques, inking techniques for simple multiple color printing. The class will also discuss planning an image as well as how to implement the elements of art - especially line and value, and how they relate to shape and form to create spatial depth patterns and more. A printing press has been made available by the college, and press usage and safety will be covered.  

Goals:

• To embrace woodcut technique and style

• To utilize line, value, pattern and mark making specific to relief printmaking and woodcut tools

• Experience printmaking with a printmaking press and learn best printing practices

• To safely and successfully execute a small edition of 5-10 prints, or a suite of varied prints

Student Supply List

• Sketchbook or tablet for ideas and notes

• 11” x 14” or 16” x 20” Newsprint pad (or similar size)

• 4 sheets of printmaking paper 22” x 30” (4 is minimum, you can bring as many as you would like to print as time and press sharing allows!)

  • Recommended paper: 

  • Canson Edition, 

  • OR Japanese Mulberry, 

  • OR other equivalent printmaking paper (lightweight Rives, Arches, Masa, etc.) 

  • papers can also be bought by the sheet at Meininger in Denver                                                                                                                                                                                                  

• 5 pc carving tool kit recommended:  Power Grip brand from Japan, or Flex Cut brand

• pencil - mechanical or your favorite

• white eraser

• Scissors 

• X-Acto knife and blades 

• Apron

• tape, blue or scotch

• reusable gloves for cleanup and/or nitrile or latex gloves 

Class Size: 

• Min # of students: 5

• Max # of students: 10