Woodblock Weekend

Coronavirus Update: This course will be running with reduced numbers and new social distancing, hygiene and safety measures in place [as of 6th May].

A two-day course introducing water-based woodblock printing, a non-toxic traditional Japanese technique that doesn’t need a press.

You will learn about the beautiful paper, wood and tools used for this method, as well as how to transfer your image to a woodblock, and how to cut it out using various knives and gouges, register it and print it on specially dampened paper. 

You will first make a black and white print, then on day two you will make a simple print with two colours. This course is great for both beginners and those who have some knowledge of this technique.

Course Structure 

Day 1

10:00 Introduction to the workshop + Health and Safety.

10:20 What is Japanese woodblock printing?

10:30 Using the basic cutting tools.

11.00 Making marks and cuts on a practise block.

11:15 Transfer your prepared first design for a black and white print to the block and begin to cut it.

12:00 Lunch

13:00 How to print a black and white block.

13:15 Continue cutting your block, then print it.

15:15 Your second design. Learn how to separate the colours and transfer to your two blocks.

15:45 Clean up and evaluation.

Day 2

10:00 Cutting the blocks for your two colours.

12:00 Lunch

13:00 Demonstration of printing and registering a two-colour print.

13:30 Printing your two-colour print, adapting the colours for variations.

15:45 Clean up and evaluation.

About the Tutor

Ralph Kiggell studied and practiced woodblock printing in Japan for eight years, and has held residencies in Thailand, China, Japan and England. While based in south Thailand, he makes frequent trips to the UK to give workshops and hold exhibitions.

Leicester Print Workshop 

Leicester Print Workshop is the regional development centre for printmaking. Established by artists in 1986, we are a registered charity, supported by Arts Council England. Our RIBA award-winning building is situated in Leicester City Centre's Cultural Quarter and is home to a large, well equipped open access Printmaking Studio.

We have over 30 years’ experience of teaching people printmaking. Our programme offers the largest number and broadest range of printmaking courses in the region, with courses suitable for beginners as well as experienced printmakers, delivered by practicing artists and nationally renowned tutors. Participants learn in small and friendly groups in our purpose-designed studio.

Bookings