Anne’s daughter bought her a one to one Lino print workshop for Mother’s Day. When she booked her session via email, she told me that she wanted to print on paper (there is also the option to print on a tote bag). There are a range of themes to choose from, helping you to narrow down what you want to get out of the session.

Initial Chat

First thing’s first - I made Anne a brew and got out the biscuits.

Anne had never tried printmaking in any form before so was excited to explore what could be done with Lino. She enjoys watercolour painting and sketching but still wanted some support with the drawing process. From this initial chat, I could make sure that I gave enough time to the elements of the printmaking process that Anne need the most guidance with.

Working Through The Process

The process I work through with each client follows a similar structure but is easily tailored to what the desired outcome is. Every one to one includes:

• drawing out the design

• how to ensure consistent placement

• getting to know the tools

• transferring the design

• carving the design

• testing the block

• refining the carve

• exploring inking

Because she was so quick and kept the carving simple, we had loads of time to focus on playing around with the colour blends and applying additional details.

When printing on paper, there are ways that we can try out a range of colour ways. This includes:

• printing onto a painted background

• carving all background and only leaving an outline

• carving away the outline (for maximum ink coverage)

• exploring ombre blend

• applying a base ink and using other tools to add highlights in different colours

Anne wanted to add some green leaves to her twigs so we played around with using our fingers to apply small dots of ink after the ombre ink. She loved this so used the same technique to add the red breast with the brown background.

Anne wanted to explore a range of colours so I showed her how to create ombre blends.

I also talked her through tools and inks that she might like to use to continue her printmaking as a hobby. One of the great things about a one to one session is that you get my undivided attention so you can ask any questions you have.

Anne’s Thoughts

I really enjoyed my first experience of Lino printing with Heather. She made the experience fun and I felt very creative. So pleased with the results and looking forward to trying more of Heather’s wonderful workshops.

Anne

If you’d like to try printmaking, find out more by clicking the button below. You can also join the mailing list to ensure you hear about group sessions at a venue near you.