​In these sessions, David will share monotype printing activities that are accessible for children. Monotype printing is a process that creates one-of-a-kind prints by applying ink to a plate and transferring it onto paper. Participants will learn how to prepare paper for printmaking and explore various techniques using non-toxic inks, making this an engaging and safe activity to create monotypes with children.

David will provide a comprehensive introduction to monotype printing, starting with an explanation of what a monotype is and its unique characteristics. He will cover the steps of preparing paper, including cutting, soaking, and blotting, to ensure it is ready for printmaking. Participants will learn how to mix ink effectively to achieve the desired texture and colour. He will also explore various types of plates that can be used, such as foam, acetate, metal, and innovative options like recycled Tetra Pak. Practical demonstrations will include inking up the plate and exploring different printing methods, whether using a press or printing by hand at home. Lastly, David will cover health and safety, focusing on best practices for working with non-toxic materials to ensure a safe and enjoyable printmaking experience.

Techniques will include mark making exercises, using recycled materials, including:

• Tonking: a technique where excess ink is lifted from an inked surface using paper or cloth to create tonal variations and texture in printmaking.

• Wipe out: where ink is selectively removed from a plate to create highlights, textures, and details before transferring the image to paper.

• Direct Painting: where ink or paint is applied directly onto a plate using brushes or other tools, without the use of traditional printing methods.

• Collograph: where textured materials are glued onto a plate, inked, and then pressed onto paper to create prints with rich textures and depth.

• Sandyundum David’s child-friendly carborundum technique using beach sand to create textured prints, 

• Trash or Treasure: activities like sifting sand to find “treasures” (microplastics, coins, etc.) for printmaking.

• Print collage: printed elements are cut and glued onto a surface to create a layered, mixed-media composition.

David will give exercises for working from imagination and from observation utilising line, tone, texture, and pattern. 

This workshop is ideal for artists, facilitators, parents, and teachers looking to explore creative, child-friendly printmaking techniques. An instructional PDF will be provided for participants.

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Booking via Plants and colour UK