CREATE + EXPLORE: Carborundum
With Master Printmaker Michele Hetherington.
Carborundum printmaking is a direct, painterly collagraph technique where silicon carbide grit (carborundum) is mixed with adhesive and applied to a plate to create textured, tonal images. Known for its painterly qualities, carborundum allows for bold marks, tonal depth, and dynamic compositions.
Throughout the workshop, participants will experiment with direct mark-making, layering, and surface-building techniques, followed by demonstrations of inking and printing using an etching press. Carborundum is valued for its versatility, expressive potential, and the ability to create large-scale work.
Suitable for beginners and those with printmaking experience, the workshop encourages an open, exploratory approach. By the end of the two days, participants will have produced a series of prints and gained a strong foundation in this dynamic technique. Min 5, Max 6
Mono- type for Beginners
Mono-type for Beginners with with Julie Anne Haines
Saturday 16th May 10.00am - 16.00pm
This one-day workshop offers an introduction to Mono-type, a unique and expressive printmaking technique that as the name suggests produces a single one of a kind original print.
Julie- Anne will start by introducing her own work and that of artists both past and present working in monotype techniques. Participants will then use a printing press, working in monochrome explore texture and tone using a variety of mark making tools such as rollers, brushes and a range of less conventional drawing materials. In the afternoon we will move into colour and explore and experiment with different layering techniques to produce more complex images.
By the end of the workshop, participants will have gained knowledge and confidence in this most painterly and spontaneous of techniques and have produced a small series of their own unique and original monotype prints.
Cost €120. Maximum participants 5
Book Here or email: leinsterprintstudio@gmail.com
Basic Silkscreen Workshop with Michele Sweetman
Hand-cut stencils, print on paper with water-based inks. All materials supplied. Bring apron and lunch.
Minimum Participants 4, Max 6.
Cost €95
Introduction to Mokuhanga, Japanese Woodblock
Introduction to Mokuhanga, Japanese Woodblock
Discover the art of traditional Japanese woodblock printmaking in this immersive one-day Mokuhanga workshop. It is designed especially for beginners, as well as for anyone interested in exploring and trying this distinctive woodcarving method. Mokuhanga originated in Chinese woodblock practices and was later refined in Japan, particularly during the Edo period (1603–1868).
Using water-based pigments, hand-carved woodblocks, and a baren, a traditional hand tool used for printing, you’ll learn how to create your own prints from start to finish. The process begins with carving a shina plywood block, followed by inking, and finally printing watercolours using a baren on Japanese washi paper.
Guided step-by-step, you’ll explore the essentials of Mokuhanga. From developing a simple design - you can bring your own to fit the A5 block size, or the tutor will provide beautiful templates - to carving your block, then inking and hand-printing using a baren. This process is quiet, tactile, and deeply rewarding, offering a refreshing alternative to more mechanical printmaking methods.
No prior experience is needed. By the end of the day, you’ll have produced a small edition of your own handmade prints, or original one-off prints with different colour variations, allowing you to enjoy the process and its possibilities, while gaining a solid foundation in this centuries-old technique.
All materials are provided, including woodblocks, carving tools, watercolours, brushes, and traditional Japanese paper. Just bring your curiosity and clothes you don’t mind getting a little messy.
Perfect for artists, designers, or anyone looking to try something new, this workshop offers a relaxed and supportive environment to learn a unique craft and connect with a rich artistic tradition.
Number Participants:
4 minimum / 8 maximum
To book please email leinsterprintstudio@gmail.com
Exploring the line: Drypoint
Exploring the line: Drypoint with Master-Printmaker Michele Hetherington
This hands-on workshop offers an accessible introduction to drypoint, an non-toxic intaglio printmaking technique known for its rich, velvety lines. Participants will learn how to prepare plates, create marks using a variety of tools, and ink and print their work using an etching press.
Over the course of the workshop, students will develop their own imagery from sketches or reference materials, gaining an understanding of line, tone, and composition in drypoint. Demonstrations and one-to-one guidance will support participants at every stage, making this suitable for both beginners and those with some printmaking experience.
By the end of the workshop, each participant will have produced a small edition of prints and a deeper understanding of the drypoint process.
Price: €95. Bring Lunch and apron. Min 4, Max 8