Traditional Indian block printing with Jenney Kelly

Ref: S1D35938

Location: West Dean
£195
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About this course

Using traditional techniques and Indian wooden blocks, you will be introduced to the endangered craft of block printing: you will learn how to design and print a cushion cover.

Course Description

Learn the age-old process of block printing. Using traditional Indian hand carved wooden printing blocks and techniques, you will immerse yourself into a creative day of experimenting with a variety of blocks and colours.

We will begin discussing the history of block printing and the challenges faced today for this endangered craft.

Following a demonstration you will have ample time to practice, first on paper and then calico, which can then be used for other craft projects or wrapping paper.

Then you will print a set of handmade Khadi paper cards and envelopes, along with a little drawstring pouch to store them in.

You will be guided gently through the process, learning how to handle and position the blocks, applying the correct amount of printing ink/paint and explore various pattern placement and alignment techniques.

We shall then move onto designing and printing a square linen cushion cover.

You will learn how to prepare fabrics for printing, plus the important aspect of ‘fixing’ the colours to make them colourfast.

You will have the opportunity to look at a number of hand printed textile samples, demonstrating the wide variety of techniques including dabu and discharge printing.

There will be examples of more complex and intricate blocks to look at, including those designed to be used with repeat patterns, multiple colours and particularly fine pattern blocks made from brass. You will also learn how to distinguish authentic block prints from mass-produced imitations.

By the end of the workshop, you will have an understanding of choosing and preparing suitable fabrics, producing simple block printed designs and how to fix your products for longevity.

We will finish the day with fixing your work, filling your cushion cover with a feather insert and choice of a colourful silk tassel.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials including printing blocks, inks/paints, cushion cover, feather insert, tassel, calico, paper and stationery items.

What students need to bring

Apron Any inspiring imagery/drawings you may have.

Additional information

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

Timetable

Timetable for one day courses

Students should arrive by 9am for registration.

Classes are from 9.15 - 5pm

Lunch is included.

General Information

Tutors

Jenney Kelly

Jenney Kelly is a block printer, bespoke textile maker and eco-dyer. Studying Art & Design, she followed this with a career as a 3D modeller & Visual Engineer. Jenney has studied textiles, printing & natural dyeing, furthering her skills with textile artisans in India, UK and Europe. 

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Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.