Community Learning – Printmaking Using Recycled Materials (without the aid of a press)

On this course, you will learn:

• how to use your sketchbook to support creating your designs
• to cut out and make images using recycled cardboard, bubble wrap and other materials that you will be able to print from directly on to paper
• to apply acrylic paints using a brush on your cardboard that is your printing surface, to create interesting images, textures, and marks
• how to print on paper without the aid of a press
• information on artists to research in order to find out more about printmaking. This is on an accompanying PowerPoint

This self-directed online workshop will take and talk you through the entire process of exploring printmaking, at your own pace, in the comfort of your home.

For this online course, you will need a computer or any other digital device with an internet connection and speakers.

You will also need:

• An apron or old clothes to wear
• Corrugated cardboard which is often found in packaging (this is the one that has a fluted corrugated sheet and one or two flat linerboards)
• Bubble wrap which is often found in packaging, just a small amount no more than A3 in size
• Grey board found in packaging envelopes, cereal packets
• Acrylic paint (such as Crawford and Black Acrylic Paints set of six)
• Jam jar with water to rinse brushes
• Rag/tissue to wipe brushes
• Paint brushes to apply paint (flat brushes such as Boldmere 10 Piece Brush Set Round and Flat Gold Taklon)
• Scissors
• Craft Knife
• Cutting board or use an old chopping board
• An old plate that you can use to put your paints on as a palette
• Cotton string small about this can be used for printing from
• Small cut of wood
• Sponge to print from (such as used in the kitchen for washing up)
• Cartridge Paper that is over 100gsm in thickness if you purchase A4 (such as Crawford and Black A4 Sketchbook)

Please note: You can also print on sugar paper, newsprint, tissue paper. To create other textures, you may want to have a look at other things that you have such as leaves, bark, wools.

This workshops is for beginner and/or those wishing to refresh their skills. No prior knowledge and experience are required, just an interest and curiosity to experiment and learn new creative techniques. Gather simple ideas and images that will help you create your images for printmaking. Note when you print the image will come out in reverse so think about this when you are generating ideas. You can also use collage papers that you can print over to create depth to your images.

Health and Safety

If you are using the craft knife to cut out and you do not have a cutting board you can use an old chopping board. Always cut away from your body and do not place your fingers anywhere near the blade. Ensure you do not use a blunt blade.

If you have any skin allergies, ensure you are careful using paints. You may wish to use non-latex gloves.

If using glue or paints, ensure you are in a ventilated room.

Activate Learning offer a broad variety of creative onsite and online courses. Explore our offer!