Linoleum block printing is a relief process where the flat surface (the relief surface) of the block carries the ink which is then transferred to paper or other flat material using pressure.

This beginner/ intermediate workshop is meant as an introduction to the techniques of relief printing as well as a review of the protocols of the printmaking studio. We will work on small blocks transferring a drawing directly, using tracing or image transfer techniques. We then discuss how to design the cutting of the block to create a balanced design in black and white. Various patterning and texturing methods can be applied to create a variety of ‘optical values of grey’ which can be as simple as the hatched cuts shown on the chairs and tree trunk in Hugh Bryden’s print or as nuanced as the fabrics in Olesya Dzhurayeva’s (Featured on the cover photo).

Safe cutting techniques and the use of a variety of cutting blades will be demonstrated. Students will then learn the process of rolling out and transferring ink to the block, how to register and print onto paper with and without a press and subsequently the traditional practice of signing and numbering prints for display.

All materials will be provided.

Wednesday, April 8th, 2026, 9:30am -4:00pm. Half hour break for lunch.

About the Instructor:

Anne Jones is a retired art teacher, with 34 years teaching senior printmaking as well as foundation drawing, painting, design, and art history.

“Currently I’m enjoying making prints, teaching printmaking and hanging out on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia in Canada.

I manage BlueWave Printmakers, a studio for non-toxic printmaking located in Nanaimo, BC. and enjoy being a member of the Printmakers of the Salish Sea Collective.”

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