This course is ideal for those with some printmaking experience, the workshop guides you through the process of designing, carving and printing a small edition using the reduction method—where sections of the block are cut away between each layer of colour.

You will begin by sketching a simple design and transferring it to your lino. Through step-by-step demonstrations, you will learn how to plan your layers, mix inks, register prints and operate a press. As the day progresses, you will carve and print successive layers, watching your image gradually emerge with depth and complexity.

This process-focused course emphasises experimentation and hands-on learning in a relaxed, supportive environment. It is a great opportunity to explore colour, composition and the creative possibilities of limited-edition printmaking. You will leave with your own small edition of finished prints and the confidence to continue practising at home.

All tools and materials are provided, and no previous experience is necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm and any source images or sketches you would like to use as inspiration. This course is perfect for creatives, hobbyists or anyone looking to try something new for a day.

Skills:

• Understanding the principles of reduction linocut and how it differs from multi-block printing
• Planning a layered image and sequencing cuts for successive colour stages
• Safe and effective carving techniques using linocut tools
• Mixing and applying inks for bold, layered effects
• Registering prints accurately to maintain alignment between colour layers
• Printing by hand using a baren or press, and troubleshooting common issues

Outcomes – You will come away with:

• A small edition of multicoloured reduction linocut prints from your own design
• Confidence in executing a reduction print using just one lino block
• Practical experience in ink mixing, layering and hand-printing techniques
• A solid understanding of image planning, carving stages and registration
• The skills and motivation to continue reduction linocut printing independently at home or in a studio?

What students need to bring

All tools and materials are provided. This is an intermediate workshop, designed for participants with some previous experience of linocut printing. To make the most of our time together, please bring one or two designs or sketches prepared for an A6 lino block (105 × 148 mm). Ideally, these should be almost ready to transfer onto the lino. Bold, simple designs with clear shapes and areas of colour work best. As this is a one-day workshop, we recommend planning a design that can be printed in 3-4 colours (plus the white of the paper), allowing enough time to complete a successful reduction print during the day.

Available to buy

A variety of art and craft materials are available from the Garden's Gatehouse Shop.

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  
 

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