About

This immersive one-day workshop explores the rich, tactile world of traditional block printing, drawing inspiration from the enduring designs and philosophy of William Morris. Working with Indian woodblocks, participants will discover printmaking as a slow, deliberate and deeply human craft.

William Morris championed the value of the handmade over the machine, believing that beauty lay not in perfection, but in the mark of the maker. This workshop embraces that ethos, celebrating variation, rhythm and subtle imperfections that give block printed textiles their character and soul.

Structure

Morning Session: Exploring pattern on paper, encouraging curiosity and freedom, allowing time to play, observe and develop confidence before moving to fabric. We will be working with handmade cotton rag paper & newsprint.

2-2.5 hours

We will begin the day by getting to know the blocks and inks through playful experimentation on paper, looking at colour, layering, repeat pattern and varying compositions by combining a range of blocks.

Break for lunch.

2-2.5 hours

Afternoon Session: We will transfer our skills to fabric, considering scale, placement and repeat patterns. Participants will be working on towels or large pieces of calico to take home which can be framed or purposed as stitched fabric items.

All materials will be provided. No previous experience necessary.