Traditional Indian block printing – linen cushion cover with Jenney Kelly

Ref: S1D40263

Location: West Dean
£233

Places available

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 linen cushion cover.

Course Description

Learn the age-old art of block printing in this immersive and creative one-day workshop. Using traditional Indian printing blocks, you will explore a variety of patterns and colours, culminating in the creation of a hand printed linen cushion cover.

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 a linen cushion cover, printing each side in a different design.

We will discuss 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 showcasing techniques such as Indian dabu (mud resist), discharge printing, hand block printed silks and Blaudruck (blue-dyeing) a rare, centuries-old indigo dyeing and printing practiced in parts of Europe.

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.

We’ll finish the day with fixing your work, filling your cushion cover with a feather insert and choice of a 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 & stationery items.

What students need to bring

Apron. If you have any of your own wooden printing blocks, then please bring them along.

Additional information

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

Timetable

Student registration: 9.15am-9.30am  
Course teaching: 9.30am-5pm  
Morning session: 9.30am-1pm  
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch included)  
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm  
Teaching finishes: 5pm  

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 for art craft and design short courses

Further study options

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

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