The workshop will explore the use of procion dyes for screenprinting and mark-making on cloth. Through the exploration and experimentation of a range of processes you will develop an understanding of layering and colour mixing, pattern and surface texture.

You will create a series of samples and fabric pieces that will form a reference library for future experiments and create starting points for your personal creative development. Using a silk screen as the main medium, you will explore how to build up surface texture and layers of colour by printing with a variety of techniques and temporary resists, including breakdown printing onto fabric.

Within these processes you will look at the design elements of composition, texture, scale, shape and colour. This will be supported by individual and group discussions that will help you develop your ideas and how to apply them to your own creative designs.

The first evening will provide a fun and informal opportunity to get to know the group whilst partaking in an inventive activity exploring the possibilities of mark-making and pattern overlays working on paper. These initial outcomes will help the group understand the potential of what can be achieved over the coming days.

The course is suitable for all abilities and those who want to embed the learning within their own creative practice. All that is needed is a sense of curiosity and a willingness to experiment in a relaxed and supportive environment. It has been designed so that all the processes learnt are accessible and achievable in a home environment or a studio with limited equipment.

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Included

• On this course most of the materials will be supplied including:
• Fabric, dyes and printing auxillaries
• Sundries (masking tape, plastic sheeting, newsprint paper)
• Watercolour paper (first evening)
• Ink and acrylic paint
• Silk screens and squeegees will be available for use on the course.

What students need to bring

• Apron and rubber gloves
• Any natural, white or light fabrics you may wish to work on in addition to those supplied by the College (linen, cotton, silk, but not wool). Any fabric you bring yourself will need to be prepared prior to the course by soaking in a solution of soda ash and water. This is a simple process. If it is something you wish to try, please contact the College for instructions on how to do this.
• Mark-making tools and objects to use for your breakdown screen: There will be a selection supplied by the tutor, however, please feel free to bring along anything you feel could make an interesting mark or shape. Hardware stores, sheds and kitchens are often good sources for this. For example, washers, screws, pastry brush, sponge, buttons, mesh, bottle tops, keys, any old brushes or any favourite brushes. If you think it might make an interesting mark, please bring it along to try!

Available to buy

• Available from tutor:
• Silk fabric

Additional information

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