Relief Printmaking (January)

Relief printmaking is a graphic and versatile type of printmaking that dates as far back as 500 BC. An image is carved in reverse onto a block, which is then inked and sent through a press. The tools are basic but the possibilities are expansive.

Relief Printmaking empowers students (both first-time printmakers and experienced printmakers) to plan, carve, and print relief blocks. After looking at lots of examples, both historical and contemporary, students will begin their relief printing adventure with a playful low-pressure “Speedy-Cut” block. Throughout the class, students will move on to carving both linoleum and wood with a variety of carving techniques that exploit line, shape, contrast, and texture.

On the press, students will learn how to mix ink, handle paper, register multiple colors, and finesse pressure to produce a set of prints that utilizes the skills built throughout the class. Graduates are welcome to continue printings independently at Spudnik Press through our Open Studio program.

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