Hello, my name is Niki and I'm a Printmaker in Porthtowan, Cornwall. My linocuts are for sale at Blue Bar so I thought there was no better place to share my love of printing with you. We have The Board Room for our workshop, which has fabulous views across the beach to the Atlantic. There will be tea and coffee on tap, and you can order lunch on the day (Please note lunch is not included in the workshop price), which we can hopefully eat outside in the sunshine (fingers crossed)

This is an over 18s workshop.

This will be a relaxed session but packed full of information.

You will learn how to design a print, transfer it to a block and use the correct tools to cut. Then how to mix ink, roll it and how to get the right consistency and layers for a clean print. You will be hand burnishing on different papers. Finally (and quite crucially) you'll learn how to clean your block to preserve it for future use.

• We'll begin with seeing how cutting tools work on different types of lino. Some are easier on the hands than others.
• I'll show you how to create a test piece which can be used as a block print for a repeat pattern on fabric or for wrapping paper.
• Then we will try a little more complicated design and print single colours on different papers by hand. There will be a selection of papers from the most delicate Japanese to more heavyweight ones. It's amazing what difference a paper can make.
• I will bring a selection of printmaking books for inspiration and some of my prints to explain the difference between a one colour linocut, and then multi block and reduction methods.
• If you like to plan a design ahead, work to around A5.

You will leave with your prints, cut blocks which you can use again and again, hopefully a smile on your face and a new found love of printmaking!

If you have any issues which you feel will need extra support on the day please let me know beforehand so that I can bring appropriate resources.

Housekeeping

Transport
There is a large pay car park 2 minutes from Blue Bar and some free road parking too. There is a regular bus service in and out of the village.

Timings
Please do not arrive before ten as Blue Bar is not open until then. The first 15 minutes will be a chance to get a cuppa and say hello, browse the resources and get settled.

What to bring
My intention is for you to be a neat and tidy printer BUT it may be an idea to bring an apron or at least wear old clothes, just in case that ink ends up where it shouldn't! Feel free to bring books, tools and anything else that you may have already. All tools and resources are provided but I know some people like to try things out that they have had in the back of the cupboard for a while. Please also bring a bag to carry your work home, a plastic one if it's raining!

Lunch
Order from Blue or explore the village cafe and shops, Porthtowan Village Stores sells pasties.. You can have a ten minute lunch, work right through or have a very leisurely lunch. It is up to you.

Payment
Please pay within 24 hours of your booking.

Refunds
I will offer a full refund up to a month before the event. After that a full refund (minus ticket site fees) if I can fill the place.

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