Two-day workshop with Paz Mendez
Saturday January 20 - January 21
10:00 am to 3:00 pm each day
$140 plus $25 materials fee ($14 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 and transferring it to your linoleum, and provide 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. The workshop is suitable for beginners and anyone who wishes to refresh their skills.
Day 1 - Carving
On the first day we will focus on carving your design into the linoleum plate and learn about techniques to achieve the results you want. We will look at the various styles of other linocut artists and discuss different carving techniques. Paz will show some of his own carved lino blocks and his resulting prints to clearly demonstrate how the carved image appears when printed. The rest of the day will be spent carving your design, with time left to pull a single-color proof to check your line work and make adjustments.
Day 2 - Printing
On the second day we will talk more about inking up your lino block for crisp, clean, consistent results. You will become familiar with inking tools and learn some tips on how to avoid misprints! There will be a few color options for ink so you can play around and see how different colors change the feel of your design. Students will also learn to use an etching press, including getting the roller pressure just right. We'll provide multiple colors for variety, and show how to do a color blend. Depending on time, students can expect to get 2-5 prints total.
Students should bring one or two designs for a 6” x 8” inch image, suitable for printing in one or more colors. During the workshop, extra time may be used to carved a second block.
Two 6” x 8” unmounted linoleum blocks will be provided for each student, as well as scrap pieces to practice on. 100% recycled paper will be available for students to use along with various colors of ink. All printing studio tools, including brayers and ink knives, will be available for use. Participants are welcome to bring their own linoleum cutting tools, and a basic Speedball linocut tool set will be available for purchase ($15.00) at the workshop.
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 four weeks before the start of the workshop, or a 50% refund if it is received at least one week before the start.
Add a linocut tool set ($15) to your cart and we’ll have it waiting for you at the workshop.
