Discover the bold, graphic qualities of linocut printmaking, with a focus on multi-plate techniques in this creative one-day workshop. Designed for both beginners and those with some print experience, this course will guide you through the process of creating multi-layered prints using more than one lino block.

In the morning, you will explore the basics of linocut—designing, carving and inking a single-colour block. Once you're confident with the technique, you will introduce the concept of multi-plate printing, where each block is carved to print a different colour or layer of the final image. You will learn how to plan your design for alignment (registration), mix ink and layer colours to create depth and contrast.

The afternoon will be spent refining your design, printing your blocks in sequence, and experimenting with colour variations. You will also explore how using transparent and opaque inks can dramatically affect the mood and impact of your final print.

By the end of the day, you will have produced a small edition of layered, colour-rich prints and gained a solid understanding of multi-plate linocut techniques. You will leave with the skills to continue developing your printmaking at home or in the studio.

Skills:

• Understanding the principles of linocut and how to apply them to a multi-plate process
• Planning and designing for multi-block registration and colour layering
• Carving lino blocks with precision and creativity
• Mixing and applying different inks to achieve contrast, transparency or subtle layering
• Experimenting with colour, texture and composition for visual impact
• Printing using an etching press or hand burnishing methods

Outcomes – You will come away with:

• A set of finished, multicoloured linocut prints created from your own design
• Confidence in using multiple plates to build up complex images
• Practical knowledge of registration techniques for accurate layering
• A strong foundation in ink mixing as applied to printmaking
• Inspiration and skills to continue linocut printing independently at home or in a studio setting

Included

On this course the college will supply the following materials:

• Printing paper (Somerset Satin/Velvet, 300 gsm)
• Lino plates
• Relief inks (Safewash)
• Carving tools
• Ink rollers
• Spatulas
• Greyboard for registration
• Tracing paper
• 4B-6B pencils

What students need to bring

• Reference images, either drawings or photos

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Student registration: 10.30am - 11am
Course teaching: 11am – 5.15pm 
Morning session: 11am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions