Comics Experiments in Risography

Comics are a versatile story-telling medium that combine text and images to tell stories in playful ways. In this comics-based risography class, students will create a series of three experimental comics projects that explore varied approaches to combining text and illustration in simple book forms. Delving into exactly how and why comics work, students will learn about the design and production of microcomics and how to sequence content in a book.

Alongside exploring the art of comics, student will learn the basics of risography printing. Risography is a relatively new mechanical printing process that is rising in popularity among artists and community print studios. Producing offset-like prints in a variety of colors, it is a perfect mode of creation for those interested in illustration, comics, writing or book arts.

Through the professional instruction of Alex Kostiw, by the end of this eight-week class students will know their way around the print shop and be well equipped to continue risography printing independently at Spudnik Press Cooperative.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 4 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Fundamentals of Screenprinting on Paper

Screenprinting is an art form known for its bold graphics and versatility. A close cousin of stenciling, screenprinting is relatively easy to learn yet has many facets to explore and master. This eight-week class not only provides adequate time for new printers to complete a range of projects on paper, gradually increasing in complexity, but offers an in-depth perspective on the detailed processes behind screenprinting. With the ongoing support of an advanced screenprinter to help troubleshoot along the way, students will become familiarized with dark room exposure, mesh count, reclaiming screens, ink consistency, and registration.

In addition, this class will help students develop the best techniques to successfully translate their imagery to print. By the end of this multi-week class, students will know their way around the print shop and be well equipped to continue printing independently at Spudnik Press Cooperative.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 4 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as many studio supplies.

Risography 101 (10/10/21)

The Risograph is an automated duplicator from Japan that efficiently produces offset-like prints in a variety of saturated colors. Though not originally intended for artistic application, the machine has recently gained traction (and notoriety) in small-press culture for its distinct footprint and efficiently as well as being rather finicky.

This workshop will walk students through the fundamentals of risograph printing for making books and fine art prints, and familiarize students with techniques to best reproduce their imagery. Students will become acquainted with the mechanics of the printer and learn basic maintenance, including how to change the master roll and a drum’s ink tube. Lastly, students will learn the best design techniques for risograph printing, taking into consideration: ink drying time, ink density, paper options, registration, and patience. Everyone will leave with an individually designed two-layer print.

Students will receive risography authorization and are encouraged to use Open Studio shortly after taking the workshop in order to help solidify their understanding of the machine.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 4 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Papermaking Labs (10/17/21)

Papermaking is an artform all on its own and can also be a beautiful extension of bookmaking, printmaking, drawing and more. Our Papermaking Labs are monthly workshops that welcome both beginning and experienced paper makers. Regardless of prior experience, this workshop aims to build confidence and comfort using Spudnik’s papermaking facilities. Enroll in a single session for a well-rounded introduction to the art form. Return for additional sessions to continue building papermaking skills and ultimately gain authorization to make paper through our Open Studio sessions.

For those new to the process, every papermaking lab begins with an overview of fibers, tools, papermaking processes and demonstrations on how to pull sheets of paper using a mould and deckle. Based on the interests of participants, the basics will be expanded on through dying pulp, pulp painting, and integrating “inclusions” such as print fragments, organic materials, or string into the paper. Through these projects, participants will learn about the science of papermaking and how to select and use various plant fibers. For these session unlimited cotton and abaca is provided.

In addition to surveying a range of papermaking skills, participants will be able to work on a self-directed project with guidance and support from a papermaking expert.. By the end of the session, everyone will make a stack of their own handmade paper and practice setting up and tear down their own vat. This is a wet process, so dress appropriately.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 5 people to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Intro to Relief Printing

Relief printmaking dates as far back as the 7^th century and is considered the oldest form of printmaking, appearing first as woodblock images in China. It is a graphic yet versatile process, capable of hardedge imagery as well as soft tonality. In relief, an image is carved in reverse into a block which is then inked and sent through a press. The tools are simple and approachable but the possibilities are expansive.

Our three-week Intro to Relief Printing class equips students to plan, carve, and print in relief practices. During this class, students will be guided through the best methods for planning and transferring their images utilizing subtractive techniques that exploit line, shape, contrast, and texture. In addition, students will learn how to mix and modify inks, handle paper, methods of registration, and how to finesse pressure on the press for the best results.

With the completion of this class, students will not only produce an edition of prints that reflect the skills built throughout this class but receive authorization in relief printing at Spudnik. Further printing in relief can be explored through our Open Studio or Keyholder programs.

 Basic carving tools are available to use during class but we encourage students to acquire their own set to use outside of class times. We recommend Blick’s Student Wood Chisel Set as well as a Flexcut SlipStrop to keep them sharp.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 5 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Risography 101 (11/7/21)

The Risograph is an automated duplicator from Japan that efficiently produces offset-like prints in a variety of saturated colors. Though not originally intended for artistic application, the machine has recently gained traction (and notoriety) in small-press culture for its distinct footprint and efficiently as well as being rather finicky.

This workshop will walk students through the fundamentals of risograph printing for making books and fine art prints, and familiarize students with techniques to best reproduce their imagery. Students will become acquainted with the mechanics of the printer and learn basic maintenance, including how to change the master roll and a drum’s ink tube. Lastly, students will learn the best design techniques for risograph printing, taking into consideration: ink drying time, ink density, paper options, registration, and patience. Everyone will leave with an individually designed two-layer print.

Students will receive risography authorization and are encouraged to use Open Studio shortly after taking the workshop in order to help solidify their understanding of the machine.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 4 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Papermaking Labs (11/14/21)

Papermaking is an artform all on its own and can also be a beautiful extension of bookmaking, printmaking, drawing and more. Our Papermaking Labs are monthly workshops that welcome both beginning and experienced paper makers. Regardless of prior experience, this workshop aims to build confidence and comfort using Spudnik’s papermaking facilities. Enroll in a single session for a well-rounded introduction to the art form. Return for additional sessions to continue building papermaking skills and ultimately gain authorization to make paper through our Open Studio sessions.

For those new to the process, every papermaking lab begins with an overview of fibers, tools, papermaking processes and demonstrations on how to pull sheets of paper using a mould and deckle. Based on the interests of participants, the basics will be expanded on through dying pulp, pulp painting, and integrating “inclusions” such as print fragments, organic materials, or string into the paper. Through these projects, participants will learn about the science of papermaking and how to select and use various plant fibers. For these session unlimited cotton and abaca is provided.

In addition to surveying a range of papermaking skills, participants will be able to work on a self-directed project with guidance and support from a papermaking expert. By the end of the session, everyone will make a stack of their own handmade paper and practice setting up and tear down their own vat. This is a wet process, so dress appropriately.

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 5 people to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions. The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

T-shirts & Totebags Screenprinting Workshop (11/21/21)

Convert your own drawing or design to a collection of hand-printed wearable items in this energetic and informative one-day workshop. Printing an assortment of t-shirts or tote bags is practical, fun and incredibly gratifying!

Students should come to the workshops with a bold black and white drawing, a high-contrast photo, or a digital design.While .AI or .PSD files are great, we also welcome students to bring anything text typed through Microsoft Word or photocopied. After students refine the artwork (as needed) to be “print-ready”, students will use a pre-coated photographic screen and mix their own custom ink color. Everyone should bring five items of their choosing to print. As long as they are fabric and flat, we can help you print on it! Shirts, tote bags, tea towels, bandanas, and thrift store jean jackets will all work great. Leave with a sample for an Etsy store, a surprise gift for a friend, or an eco-friendly alternative to plastic bags!

Please note: Each student will have a dedicated work station and enrollment is limited to 4 students to ensure social distancing. Students will be expected to disinfect shared resources after use and follow all our Covid-related safety precautions.The class fees cover tuition as well as consumable studio supplies.

Private Lessons: Gap Lessons

“Gap Lessons” are designed to support people transitioning from taking classes to using our Open Studio program, and to offer efficient and focused one-on-one support for people embarking on new projects or who need help working through a particular printing issue.

Taught by our in-house staff of skilled printers/artists, these one-hour lessons can help fill in any gaps that have held you back from getting the most out of your time at the studio.

Lessons are often scheduled preceding an Open Studio session to allow students to work with staff for an hour before their full studio session.

Email info@spudnikpress.org to schedule a lesson. Lessons are typically scheduled at least one-two weeks in advance. Instead of enrolling through our website, an online invoice will be sent once a lesson is confirmed. Please include in the email:

• The specific topic or skill you would like help with
• Any particular staff you would like to be paired with
• Availability: days, evenings, weekends, etc.

Please note that gap lessons are not designed to provide authorization, but instead boost your confidence within the studio. Based on the skill or topic you would like to focus on, we may recommend a longer lesson.

Gap lessons are $45 for a 1-hour session. Members of Spudnik receive a discounted rate of $40/hour.