Thursday Evening: Beginners and Intermediate Printmaking - 10th June 2027

About this course

The course introduces beginners to etching methods including hard ground, soft ground and aquatint, alongside intaglio printing and other approaches to making plates, blocks and prints. Learners with existing experience can develop individual projects across different media. Teaching combines demonstrations, presentations, group discussions, critiques and one-to-one technical or critical guidance. Learners record and review their progress through a Learning Statement, while discussions consider techniques, artists’ work and participants’ own prints.

What you'll learn

• Create plates and blocks for printing
• Apply different printmaking and intaglio techniques
• Develop a personal project using different media
• Operate printmaking equipment safely
• Evaluate work through critiques and technical discussions

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners as well as returning and advanced learners. Beginners are introduced to fundamental techniques, while those with previous experience can work on individual projects. Teaching includes group activities, critiques and one-to-one guidance.

• No previous printmaking experience is necessary
• An interest in, or experience of, drawing or design may be useful
• Learners may be developing existing knowledge of particular printmaking techniques

Before you go

• Learners should bring pencils, a small paintbrush and a sketchbook or notebook.
• Learners should bring their own apron, rubber gloves for cleaning, thin nitrile or latex gloves for inking, printmaking tools and drawing equipment.
• Most studio consumables, including ink, cleaning materials and solvents, are included. Paper, etching plates and lino blocks must be purchased separately and are available from the department at cost price.
• Health and safety guidance is provided, and learners must agree to follow the relevant procedures. Some chemicals may be harmful during pregnancy or cause irritation; learners should inform the tutor about pregnancy or sensitivities.
• The print studio is not wheelchair accessible and is on the second and third floors. Learners with mobility issues should contact the department before enrolling.