Introduction to Foil Blocking

ByLondon Centre for Book Arts

Printmaking

Beginner

A practical beginner workshop covering foil blocking, press setup, artwork preparation and safe operation.

About this course

This workshop introduces foil blocking, a process that applies a metallic finish to printed surfaces using equipment similar to a letterpress. Participants prepare artwork for conversion into plates, then set up and register work on the press. The course also examines how foil blocking behaves on different substrates and covers safe, accurate press operation. The process is commonly used for book covers and packaging, and the workshop enables participants to work independently on foil blocking presses after completion, subject to purchasing a Studio Pass.

What you'll learn

  • Prepare artwork for conversion into foil-blocking plates
  • Set up and register work accurately in the press
  • Assess how foil blocking performs on a range of substrates
  • Operate a foil-blocking press safely and correctly

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners with no previous experience stated as necessary. It suits learners who want an introductory, practical session involving artwork preparation, press setup and supervised operation of specialist printing equipment.

  • Suitable for complete beginners
  • Involves practical work with a printing press
  • Covers both preparation and safe equipment operation

Before you go

  • All materials and tools are provided.
  • Participants may bring their own papers or other materials for testing.

Class teacher

  • Cicely Pilkington

    Class teacher

Where this course runs

  • Selected class

    Britannia Works, 56 Dace Road, London E3 2NQ

    Nearest station: Hackney Wick

    View venue details ›

London Centre for Book Arts

Book arts and print workshops

7 printmaking courses on Learn.London

Upcoming classes

1 class

Selected date

Fri 13 Nov 2026

10:00 – 13:00

£90

London Centre for Book Arts, Hackney Wick

Cicely PilkingtonClass teacher
StartsScheduleLengthTeacherVenuePrice
  • Fri 13 Nov, 10:00 - 13:00

    —
    London Centre for Book Arts
    —Fri 10:00£90
    CicelyPilkingtonLondon Centre for Book Arts
    CicelyPilkington
    £90

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