Textiles: block printing with lino

About this course

Participants develop drawings, marks and patterns before translating them into lino-cut designs. They learn to cut blocks safely, apply ink and print onto fabric, then rotate and overlap blocks to investigate repeats and pattern formation. The course also explores printing on different textiles, cutting multiple blocks and combining colours using synthetic and natural-dye techniques. Teaching is practical, with group demonstrations, examples and guidance on using workshop tools and equipment safely.

What you'll learn

• Use lino-cutting tools safely.
• Translate sketches and mark-making into lino-cut designs.
• Create repeated patterns through block printing on fabric.
• Explore colour combinations using lino-cut blocks.
• Apply synthetic and natural-dye block-printing techniques.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners. The level label suggests an introduction to the subject, with participation involving practical workshop activities alongside group demonstrations of techniques.

Before you go

• Materials for making and printing the lino blocks are provided.
• Participants may bring a small selection of fabrics to print on, particularly if they want to explore different textures.
• Participants should bring a postcard, book or sketchbook containing imagery to inspire their designs.