Printed Perfection: Printmaking Essentials Series

Explore the world of printmaking with this essential series in 3 different printmaking styles! Over the course of 4 sessions and independent studio time, you'll be introduced to the basics of screenprinting, block printing, and dry point using a variety of tools, both high and low tech. By the end of this series, you'll have created at least 4 designs and walk away with the skills you need to hone your printmaking skills!

Session 1 will take you through the process of making a drypoint etching print using our laser cutter! This session will focus on how to use the laser cutter to make your block before using the etching press to create your print! 

Skills covered during this session:

-Foundations of designing for printmaking

-Introduction to the laser cutter 

-Inking techniques for intaglio printmaking

-Usage of the etching press

Session 2 will focus on how to create a one color screen print and how to operate the screen printing equipment! This session will cover the development of your screen as well as how to create prints on t-shirts and paper alike. 

Skills covered during this session:

-Proper formatting of digital designs 

-Preparing a screen with your design

-Usage of two types of screenprinting presses and other equipment

Session 3 will dive into the process of block printing with linoleum or wood! This session will focus on hand carving and different styles of printing with a press or by hand!

Skills covered during this session:

-Safe hand carving techniques

-Understanding design tricks for block printing

-Introduction to multi color printing

Session 4 will build upon the previous two session by honing skills in either block printing or screen printing to create a two color print! This session focuses on how to properly design and line up multicolor prints taking your printmaking to the next level!

Skills covered in this session:

-Turning one design into two print plates

-Understanding how to use registration marks to line up your plates

-Techniques for making consistent prints

By the end of this class, you will have created at least 4 different finished print designs and plates and multiple prints of each design! Materials will be provided for these 4 blocks and to make multiple prints from each with some additional materials available for practicing during independent studio time. Resources for purchasing additional material locally and online will also be provided during the first class.

This series includes 4 sessions of class instruction totaling 16 hours plus 150+ hours of available studio time for independent practice in the printmaking and laser studios at Mixxer. Independent studio time may be used any time during Mixxer's open hours. You will have access to all tools within the printing and laser studios that you have trained on during your sessions. You will not have access to tools in other shops unless you are a member. Each session will go from 1 PM-5 PM.

Session Dates:

Session 1- February 1, 1 PM-5 PM

Session 2- February 8, 1 PM- 5 PM

Session 3- February 25, 1 PM-5 PM

Session 4- February 22, 1 PM-5 PM

Interested in this series but dates don't work for you? Reach out to workshops@wsmixxer.org for scheduling options.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Please make sure you wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty to each session as printmaking ink will stain clothing. 

Lead by: Savannah Shanley (she/her)

Savannah Shanley (she/her) joined the Mixxer staff as Events Manager in May of 2023 after graduating from Salem College. She loves all kinds of creative mediums including painting and printmaking but her biggest passion is the art of quiltmaking and fiber arts. She loves helping others to learn and share their creativity with the world. Stop by to say hello whenever you're at Mixxer!

This meet up is for makers 12 years old and older. All makers ages 16 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult.  Please email workshops@wsmixxer.org for any questions.