Open Access Printmaking
Course overview
This Open Access Printmaking course provides supervised access to professional printmaking facilities for learners who wish to work independently on their own projects.
This is not a taught course. Instead, it is designed for individuals who already have experience of printmaking processes and can work safely and confidently with minimal guidance. A qualified technician will be present during all sessions to provide supervision, ensure safe working practices and offer limited technical support where required.
Access is granted on a competency basis. All learners must complete a pre-course questionnaire Open Access Printmaking – Pre-Course Questionnaire – Fill in form and attend a mandatory induction during the first session, where they will demonstrate their ability to use the studio and equipment safely before independent access is approved.
As this is an open access course, there is no formal teaching programme. However, you will have the opportunity to:
- develop and refine your existing printmaking skills
- gain confidence using professional printmaking equipment
- experiment with and combine different printmaking processes
- improve your technical knowledge and studio practice
- produce high-quality prints for personal projects and portfolio development
- work independently within a supportive studio environment
Course format: 5 weeks, 6-9pm, Thursday evening
Learning takes place through independent practice supported by technician supervision.
- Work at your own pace on personal printmaking projects
- Access professional printmaking facilities in a structured environment
- Receive guidance on safe working practices and equipment use when needed
- Develop your skills through practical experimentation and studio practice
- Attend weekly supervised studio sessions
Please note:
- No formal tuition or step-by-step instruction is provided
- This course does not teach printmaking techniques from a beginner level
What do I need to bring?
- Your own specialist materials as required for your project
- A protective apron or suitable old clothing
- Sketchbooks, designs, and reference materials
Basic tools and materials are included and available for use throughout the course, allowing you to focus on developing and producing your own printmaking projects. The studio provides A2 cartridge paper, acetate, and newsprint, alongside a range of essential printmaking materials including water-based screen-printing inks, screen-printing medium, screen emulsion, screen tape, and water-based lino ink.
If you wish to experiment with specialist papers, inks, or other premium materials, you are welcome to bring your own supplies to support your individual creative work.
Printmaking Facilities Include:
- Printing presses
- Screen printing equipment
- Facilities for relief printing, including lino printing and woodcut
- Drypoint and monoprinting equipment
- Workbenches and preparation areas
- Cleaning facilities and essential studio equipment
Printmaking Processes Supported:
- Relief Printing (including lino print and woodcut)
- Drypoint
- Monoprinting
- Screen Printing
Supervision & Access
- A technician will be present throughout each session
- Access is only granted once competency has been demonstrated and signed off
- The technician has authority to restrict or withdraw access if unsafe practices occur
Important Notes
- This is a supervised open access environment, not a taught class
- All learners must follow the studio code of conduct and health & safety procedures
- Independent working is only permitted after successful induction and approval
- Learners are responsible for supplying their own project materials unless otherwise stated
- Equipment access will finish 15 minutes before the end of the session to allow time for cleaning and tidying workspaces
Meet the tutors
We want our learners to feel welcome, safe and at ease when attending our classes, especially if this is your first time attending an adult education class or if you're coming back to education after a break.
If you're interested in one of courses, meet our tutors first! You'll see they have similar passions and interests and, most importantly, the right qualifications to help you make the most of your time and money.
