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A beginner's guide to block printing
Facilitator: Clare Walsh
Join Clare for a day of block printing exploration using hand-carved Indian wooden blocks. Using a selection of hand-carved blocks you will print onto a variety of surfaces, creating your own design on a tea towel or bag. A relaxing and enjoyable craft steeped in history, you will also have the chance to see photographs of the process of block printing in Jaipur and handle examples of beautifully printed fabric.
All materials included, are suitable for beginners.
Event time: Sat 8th Jul 2023 at 9:30am - Sat 8th Jul 2023 at 4:00pm
- An introduction to the tradition of Indian Block Printing
- Experimenting with paper and fabrics to create your own piece
- A restful and creative day of Indian craft
Participants Will Gain
- Hands-on experience in working with wood blocks, paper and textile
- Clare’s personal insight and knowledge into the history of the craft
- Takeaway pieces hand-printed by you
Background to this ancient craft
Clare begins by sharing images, fabrics and prints of India. She shares her knowledge of the process of hand-carving the blocks. which is a traditional craft for the highly skilled, mostly in areas around Jaipur. Clare shares how the blocks are used differently in Rajasthan and Gujarat, offering a rich experience of the Indian cultures behind the technique. The blocks used on the course are Clare’s personal collection, some of which she has collected herself whilst in India.
Practicing block printing techniques
Clare will demonstrate the technique of applying textile paint and how to produce a good image on different surfaces. The course will cover colour combination and the techniques of the repeat pattern. You will then print tissue, paper and card using a variety of blocks. These papers are perfect for wrapping paper, gift tags and cards.
We will look at the different designs and you will choose your favourite blocks to work with to print fabric. Starting with calico, then choose a tea towel, napkins or cotton bag to work with as your final piece.
Hawkwood
Hawkwood is a stunning Grade II listed 19th Century country house, surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland, and gardens. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a diverse selection of nearly 150 courses, there’s plenty to choose from, including courses in transformative leadership, future thinking, inner life, music and the arts. Our programme of courses is led by experienced tutors and leaders in their fields.
What Is Included
During your day workshop, you will get to enjoy fresh, delicious home-cooked lunches and all refreshments! Our food is prepared daily with love and care by our experienced in-house kitchen team here at Hawkwood.
Additional Activities
- Mindful walking through our woodland trails
- Meditate in our Woodland Sanctuary
- Go on a hike and explore the Cotswolds AONB
- Discover surrounding charming market towns
Price Options
£105 Day Course
Practical Information
Please wear clothes you don't mind getting ink on, or bring apron or overalls. All materials are included.
Registration from 9:15am, course begins at 9:30am. Course ends with tea at 4.00pm. Lunch and refreshments are included.
Clare Walsh
Clare is a Textile Designer and Maker and an experienced teacher of over 30 years. In her own work, Clare uses botanical material to print directly onto fabric, creating vibrant prints which are used in garments, interior products and accessories. Combining sublimation, screenprint, thermofax and block prints, she creates multi-layered designs that reflect the Cotswold countryside. Clare has taught students of all ages and enjoys introducing students to new textile techniques, encouraging creativity and helping all participants develop their skills.
Her travels to India and her growing collection of Indian wood printing blocks has inspired her work and teaching in block printing traditions.
She has exhibited and sold her work in galleries, retail outlets and contemporary craft fairs in the UK and accepts commissions for printed designs.
Testimonials
"The course was excellent! Tutor was knowledgeable, friendly, warm and great."
"Clear, varied, good selection of materials. Clare was clear, unhurried, proficient, pleasant and expert. The course had a good pace and was very enjoyable."
"Good history, background and able to practice before printing. A great one day course – tutor was knowledgeable."
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Hawkwood is an educational charity providing courses, facilitating training and offering venue hire, set in a stunning location in the Cotswolds.
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