This is a two-day workshop exploring the various techniques that surround the Drypoint Etching process. You will experience printing with the etching press to create your own unique prints.

You will begin the workshop by choosing relevant reference material from which you will be working from, you are encouraged to bring along your own drawings, sketches, photos, magazine pull outs etc. You will then talk through the etching plate, press and tools. You will etch your design onto an etching plate using various tools. The scale of our prints will be around A5.

After etching our plate you will begin the printing using quality Caligo inks onto mould made papers.

As we progress through the workshop you will learn how to print onto both fabric and paper as we continue to explore this very popular printmaking process. You will look into various collage techniques and explore colour and texture to produce experimental and high quality finished prints through the etching press.

Beginners very welcome, I will offer step by step guidance throughout the sessions, with visual presentation and demonstrations in a relaxed, informal learning atmosphere This will be a very experimental and hands on workshop that will set you up to continue your exploration into other methods of printmaking.

I will bring along all materials and equipment needed, however printmaking can get a little messy so it’s a good idea to bring along an apron.  Also please do bring along your reference material to work from as mentioned above. I will help select imagery with you during the workshop. If you have any specific papers or surfaces that you would like to print on then please do bring them along.

During this workshop you will learn:-

• How to use etching tools to create your image on an etching plate
• How to use the etching press
• Learn the chine colle technique
• Various Monoprint techniques using the press
• How you can express your own style through mark making, use of texture, colour choice and composition
• Create prints working from your own imagery – this could be drawings / photographs / magazine cut outs / print outs / sketch books. I will have imagery for you to work from, however it would be great if you could bring along a selection of the above to work from.