This workshop is FULL — please email us if you’d like to get on the waitlist.
Two-day workshop with Paz Mendez
Saturday April 22 - Sunday April 23
10:00 am to 3:00 pm each day
$125 plus $40 materials fee ($13 discount for WhitPrint members)
About the Workshop
This class will introduce you to the basics of linocut printmaking. We will focus on creating artwork that works well with this hand-carved medium, how to transfer it to your linoleum, and an overview of carving techniques. Ink selection and additives for getting the best results on an etching press will be covered, and we will discuss low-waste techniques and eco-friendly materials. At the end of the class, participants should feel confident enough to create their own linocut prints and will go home with their own hand-carving tool set.
Day 1 - Carving
On the first day there will be a brief overview of linocut printmaking. We will study a variety of prints to gain a basic understanding of how the process works. Tips will be given on what designs work best for hand-carving, and participants can make any final tweaks in their designs. We will learn how to transfer artwork to the linoleum to get a solid outline for carving, as well as how to stain your lino to increase the contrast and make it easier to see what you are carving. An overview of different carving techniques will be demonstrated, and there will be time to practice before diving straight into your artwork. The rest of the day will be spent carving your design.
Day 2 - Printing
On the second day we will learn how to use an etching press to print your linocut. We will go over setting the correct pressure to get a clean print and centering your lino with the paper. We will learn how to properly apply ink to your lino block. You will become familiar with inking tools and learn some tips on how to avoid misprints! We will be printing one-color designs with black oil-based, water-miscible ink. Time permitting, each student can expect to make 2-5 prints. At the end you will learn how to clean your lino block, printing area, and press.
Two 5”x7” unmounted linoleum blocks will be provided for each student, as well as scrap pieces to practice on. A hand carving tool set will be given to each student to use and keep after the class. 100% recycled heavyweight paper will be available for students to use along with black ink. All printing studio tools, including brayers and ink knives, will be available for use.
Students should bring a design for a 5x7” image (keep in mind it will be printed in black and white). Time permitting, a second design may be carved on the second block.
About the Instructor
Paz (rhymes with “boss”) Mendez is an eco-friendly printmaker specializing in linocut printing and screen printing. He worked as a screen printer and lithographic offset printer commercially for five years before finding his passion for hand carving lino. Paz is a full-time working artist, and sells his art at shows online and locally. When not making art, you can find him outside enjoying nature.
Reserving Your Spot
Register and pay in full to reserve your spot. To cancel a workshop enrollment, please email studio@whitprint.com. You'll get a full refund if your request is received at least 14 days before the start of the workshop, or a 50% refund if it is received at least 7 days before the start.
