Thursday Evening: Beginners Printmaking

About this course

The course introduces collograph and drypoint, including mark-making on used packaging and assembling card, tape and other materials onto cardboard to create printable blocks. Participants explore different ways of making plates and blocks and producing prints, with scope to develop personal projects across different media. Teaching combines demonstrations, presentations, group discussions, group critiques and individual technical or critical advice. Participants use a Learning Statement to record and assess their progress, while returning and more advanced learners can receive guidance suited to their existing knowledge.

What you'll learn

• Construct plates and blocks for printmaking
• Produce prints using different methods
• Develop personal projects across different media
• Use printmaking equipment and the workshop safely
• Evaluate technical choices through group critiques and discussion

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and does not require previous printmaking experience. Learners with existing experience can use the sessions to renew or extend their knowledge, and teaching includes both group activities and individual guidance. An interest in or experience of drawing or design may be useful.

• Suitable for learners returning to printmaking after a break
• More experienced learners can receive guidance alongside beginners
• Participation includes group critiques, discussions and individual tuition

Before you go

• Bring pencils, a small paintbrush and a sketchbook or notebook.
• Bring an apron, rubber gloves for cleaning, thin nitrile or latex gloves for inking, and personal printmaking and drawing tools.
• Most studio consumables, including ink, cleaning materials and solvents, are included. Paper, etching plates, lino blocks and some other materials must be bought separately from the department at cost price.
• Health and safety procedures are explained during the course. Some chemicals may be harmful during pregnancy or cause irritation, so inform the tutor about pregnancy or sensitivities.
• The print studio does not currently have wheelchair access and is on the second and third floors. Learners with mobility issues should contact the department before enrolling.