PRINTMAKING - BLOCK PRINTING TECHNIQUES

This is an intermediate block printing class. Students in this class are expected to know the basics: choosing supplies needed, designing and conceptualizing an image for printing, different methods for transferring an image onto a block, and carving. From there, we will learn how to do reduction printing, jigsaw cut method, monotype and other multicolor printing techniques. 

Students will explore different techniques for block printing and how to apply them in multiple ways. In this class, we will demonstrate and cover linocut, woodcut and monotype. Students can choose to focus on one or explore all three. We will print by hand and we will be using the printing press. 

Block printing, or relief printmaking, involves carving a design into a block (wood, linoleum, etc.) and using the raised surface to transfer ink onto paper or fabric. 

A monoprint forms part of a series of prints that each have some variation between them. Unlike other printmaking methods, monoprints cannot be reproduced exactly, making each print an original piece. This technique allows for a painterly approach, where artists can manipulate ink or paint on a smooth surface and transfer it to paper, creating a unique image. 

SUPPLIES NEEDED:

For a complete experience, students should purchase their own carving surfaces, carving tools, inks, and paper. Please feel free to contact the studio/instructor for supply purchase consultation or inexpensive alternatives.

• Printing paper [100% cotton, Richeson Bulk Printmaking Paper, Strathmore 400 Series Printmaking Paper, Yasutomo Kozo].

• Sketchbook or sketching/planning paper.

• One pad of inexpensive newsprint paper for testing. 

• Lint free - tissue paper, paper towels [Viva or other lint free options].

• cotton rags for cleanup.

• linoleum block - soft or medium options - [Battleship gray, Speedy-carve, Readycut, E-Z Cut,].

• Woodblock for carving. Top grain cuts are best but expensive. Side grain wood is fine: Blockprinting Wood Panels, Baltic Birch Plywood. For a more diverse selection of block carving surface check out: https://www.jacksonsart.com/en-us/techniques/printmaking/relief-and-lino-printing/lino-blocks-plates Please no more than ⅜” thickness. 

• Plexiglass sheet for monotype printing. [other options - cookie baking sheet, silicone sheet, enamel tray…fully flat, non porous, smooth surface].

• For Monotype you will also need an assortment of palette knives and spatulas [kitchen tools of plastic utensils will work, toothpicks, popsicle sticks, combs, anything that can manipulate and scratch marks].

• carving tools - Gouges come in different shapes (like "V" and "U") and sizes depending on the job. Amongst the most popular tools (and my very first) is the Speedball linoleum cutter. It's affordable and comes with a range of interchangeable blades.

• Water based block printing ink  - Choosing Relief / Block Printing Ink: There are all sorts of different inks to choose from. Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink, is oil-based but cleans up with dish soap and water. For this class we will use Speedball Block Printing Ink, which is inexpensive and straightforward to work with. There are other beautiful but more expensive water based alternatives like Schmincke Aqua Linoldruck ink.

• Inking spatulas [1”, 2” 3”]

Optional

• Sharpening stones - Sharp tools make all the difference, making it easier to carve fine details.

• PTFE-covered base baren [Yasutomo Bamboo Baren].

• If you want to safely transport and store your prints purchase a simple acid free cardboard portfolio.

The studio will provide:

• Printing press  - maximum print format 12" wide × 24" long.

• Rubber brayers and rollers.

• Glassine sheets or a roll of packing paper.  

• Palette paper.

• Inking plate or enamel trays.

• Drying racks.

Instructor: Olja Stipanovic

Duration: 6 Weeks

Skill level: Intermediate

Saturdays 11am - 2pm

Session Dates: 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/22