Forthcoming Printmaking Courses

All courses are hosted by local artist and printmaker, MIKE FINNEY, who will introduce relief printing techniques using wood and lino. All equipment, tools and materials will be provided - just bring your own apron!

Mike has taught Art, and Craft, Design and Technology for over 30 years and is the author of a number of books on various design related subjects.

Our 2-day courses cost just £60 for the 2 days or you can attend for 1 day at £35. There is a maximum of 5 students per course and an opportunity for you to exhibit your favourite print from the workshop in the gallery. Students wishing to attend from further afield can arrange to stay overnight at either the local superb B&B Rose Cottage or the quaint B&B 'Honeyholes' (Tel. Dave / Margaret Greenfield on 01673 861868, South Farm, LN2 3PW) and make use of The Falconer nearby - a huge bar/restaurant/golf club.

"It has ignited a spark... a very liberating experience and very enjoyable!"

If you would like to attend any of the courses below then please contact us on 01673 860441 or email graham@forgearts.co.uk

1. Printmaking Without A Press - A 2-day Printmaking Workshop for Beginners

Saturdays/Sundays - 1pm to 5pm each day. Date: Please contact for details

During our two day workshop you will learn how to design, cut and print using lino blocks without the need of an expensive printing press. Begin by making simple monochrome prints and go on to develop the skills needed to produce more complex multi-coloured designs.

Course Outline:

Pre-course task - participants are asked to research natural forms such as leaves, seed heads or fir cones using simple sketch techniques in order to develop simple print designs during the course.

Day 1 Start 1.00pm.
1. General introduction - what is relief printing? Brief history and examples.
2. Simple woodblock printing demonstration - Introduction to printing tools and methods.
3. Introduction to lino printing. Designing for monochrome lino printing.
Task 1 Developing a design from pre-course research. Making a monochrome lino print.
4. Introduction to coloured lino printing, Multi block lino printing, Progressive lino printing. Homework task.
Day 1 Close 5.00pm.

Day 2 Start 1.00pm.
1. Recap on introduction, safety, organisation etc.
Task 2 Developing a design and making a coloured lino print. Participants spend the day developing their ideas and making a coloured lino print under the supervision of the tutor.
2. Plenary session, Group evaluation/critique, Follow up - where to next?
Day 2 Close 5.00pm.

Saturdays/Sundays - 1pm to 5pm each day. Date: Please contact for details

This course provides the opportunity for you to develop your printmaking skills without the need of an expensive printing press. You will be encouraged to explore printmaking techniques using lino, wood and plastic.