Ref: S1D37970
Learn the age-old art of block printing in this immersive and creative one-day workshop. Using traditional brass inlay Indian printing blocks, you will explore a variety of patterns and colours, culminating in the creation of a hand-printed silk shawl.
We will begin by looking at examples of fabrics printed with brass inlay blocks—specialist tools crafted by embedding fine strips of brass into carved wooden bases. This technique allows for sharp, intricate outlines and is renowned for its precision.
Following a demonstration, you will begin with printing exercises on paper and calico to gain confidence in handling the blocks, experimenting with different designs and colour combinations.
You will then create a set of handmade Khadi paper cards, envelopes and gift tags, along with a printed drawstring pouch to store them in.
Guided throughout the process, you will learn how to apply the right amount of pigment, how to align and register your patterns, and how to explore placement techniques for both repeat and freeform designs.
In the second half of the day, you will design and print an ivory tussah silk and cotton-blend shawl. You will be introduced to fabric preparation methods and the process of fixing colours to ensure your print is colourfast and lasting.
There will also be an opportunity to view a selection of hand-printed textile samples demonstrating techniques such as dabu (mud resist) and discharge printing. We will discuss the use of layered blocks for multicolour designs, and how to identify the differences between authentic hand block prints and digital reproductions.
By the end of the workshop, you will have gained practical skills in traditional block printing and produced a range of beautifully printed items to take home.
On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials, including printing blocks, inks/paints, silk shawl, calico, paper and stationery items.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Student registration: 9.15am - 9.30am
Course teaching: 9.30am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.30am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm
Teaching finishes: 5pm
*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options
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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