Introductory Workshop Overview

After a brief introduction about mokuhanga, and example of prints, participants are able to choose from a selection of pre-prepared designs.

The morning's objective is to carve the design. instruction on safe use of tools is given.

In the afternoon students are introduced to the printing process and can experiment further with colour as time allows.

Workshop Materials Provided

All neccesary materials for making your first print are provided in the course.

Materials provided in the workshop are:

• Tracing Paper & Carbon Paper
• Tape
• Wood block
• Non-slip Mat (for carving and printing)
• Printing Paper
• Pigment (Guache)

Carving Tools

Sets of carving tools are available for use, and new sets are available to buy. Students may bring their own carving tools. A set of ordinary lino-cutting tools will work, but you will become frsutrated if they are poor quality.

Items you should bring:

- pencil (3H or similar), ruler, ordinary A4 size paper for your design, set of carving tools if you have them.

- three small jars, two for mixing pigment, another for paste

2 Day Comprehensive Workshop Overview

In a two-day period students are briefly introduced to the history and concepts of Mokuhanga and taught the three main processes in mokuhanga – design, carving and printing. The end aim is to have produced a finished two colour print.

Day 1.
After a brief introduction about mokuhanga, students will begin to develop their design idea and transfer it to the wooden block, ready to be carved. Safe, ergonomic and effective carving techniques are introduced to students who proceed to carve their design until it is ready for the printing stage. Key principles of carving related to mokuhanga printing are covered. The use of different tools are shown. A brief introduction to printing prepares students for the next day.

Day 2.
Carving is finished and printing is introduced, with a focus on overcoming common mistakes for beginners aiming to produce an acceptable quality print. The use and handling of paper, various brushes, pigments, baren and other equipment is taught. Depending on the speed of work revisiting all three stages students are taught to correct common faults and produce several finished prints.

A single weekend or split weekend

The two days may be split over two weekends – this allows students to complete their carving if necessary during the week. Otherwise it is an intensive two days however there is still opportunity for discussion and individual coaching.

Course Materials Provided

All neccesary materials for making your first print are provided in the course.

Materials provided in the course are:

• Tracing Paper & Carbon Paper
• Tape
• Wood block
• Non-slip Mat (for carving and printing)
• Printing Paper
• Pigment (Guache)

Carving Tools

Students will require their own carving tools. A set of ordinary lino-cutting tools will work, but you will become frsutrated if they are poor quality. If you don't have any carving tools, I have several sets available to use and also can supply a reasonable quality and priced set.

The First Day

On the first day students should bring:
- pencil (3H or similar), ruler, paper, set of carving tools if you have them.

The Second Day

On the second day you will need:

• small brushes for applying pigment (one for each colour)
• small jars for mixing pigment (one for each colour)
• a plastic spray bottle such as an empty cleaning bottle
• a small container for paste
• plastic bag or sheet to keep printing paper moist

These items will be explained on the first day.