Fabric Block Printing Class

With Lucy Holtsnider

Please bring a simple, high-contrast 4" x 6" (or smaller) image to work from. 

Transform plain fabric into a unique, custom-printed textile. In this comprehensive printmaking workshop, you’ll learn the linocut process, from designing and carving to creating a two-color print by hand. We’ll guide you through translating an image onto two separate blocks, carving your design, and registering them perfectly to print on fabric. Using simple, non-toxic materials, you’ll learn skills you can easily use at home without a press. Join this supportive beginner-friendly workshop, discover a new creative art, and connect with a community of fellow makers!

What You’ll Make & Take Home:

• You'll make a custom, two-color linocut print on one yard of fabric. This is perfect for future sewing projects like pillows, tote bags, or clothing. You are also welcome to bring your own pre-washed, natural fiber fabric (cotton, linen, canvas) to print on.

• You'll also take home the materials to make more of your prints, including 1 square yard of cotton fabric, two 4x6" blocks of linoleum, and ink. 

Skills & Concepts You’ll Learn:

• Designing a two-color print from a photo or drawing

• Transferring an image to linoleum blocks

• Safe and effective carving techniques using linocut tools

• Properly inking a block for even coverage

• Hand-printing on fabric without a press

• Aligning (registering) two blocks for a multi-color print

Equipment & Tools You’ll Learn:

• Linocut carving tools, linoleum blocks, brayers (ink rollers), barens (for hand-printing), and bench hooks.

Class Outline:

1. Design & Prep: Introduction to linocut, translating your image into a two-color design, and transferring it to the blocks.

2. First Layer: Carving the first linoleum block, mixing ink, and printing the first color onto your fabric.

3. Second Layer: While the first layer dries, you'll carve the second block and learn how to register it perfectly to print the second color.

4. Wrap-Up: Review, tips for heat-setting ink at home, resource sharing, and Q&A.

Other Class Details:

• Prerequisites: None. No Experience Required.

• Class Capacity: 7 maximum, 3 minimum

• Materials Provided?: Bring a 4 x 6" image of what you'd like to print.

• Age Limit: 13+. Guardian required if under 18 (info)

• Partner Ticket Available?: Yes

• Available for a Private Class?: Yes (info)

• Clothing/Equipment Requirements?: Be prepared to get a little dirty.