Wood Engraving: Deep Dive into Best Printing Practices

About this event

Every block presents a unique set of challenges—and no two blocks ever print alike. In this 2-day hands-on class students will take a deep dive into the art of relief printing, learning how to print their wood engraving blocks to achieve the richest blacks and finest lines. We’ll discuss paper, ink modifiers, registration, masks, damp packs, make-ready, and editioning best practices. Students should bring their own print-ready block and paper to print on and expect to print a small edition in class. We will work with the different presses available in the studio to learn various setups and tips to get the best possible prints from each block. With over two decades of relief printing experience to share, this hands-on class will ultimately help you save time, frustration (and paper!), and help you find joy in the process of printing. You do not need to have taken the Beginning Wood Engraving class before signing up for this one, but you do need to come to this class with a finished block ready to print. Level: Beginner/Intermediate—Some experience with wood engraving is recommended, but not required. You do however need to have an engraved block ready to print. Registration closes October 2, 2026. Material fees are included with your registration to cover the supplies provided in class. Students may/will need to gather/purchase additional materials for class (see the materials list below). This list will also be provided with the registration confirmation email. Sample image by Mirka Hokkanen Materials: Registration includes a $5 materials fee to cover consumable materials provided in class, including ink and newsprint. Students will need to supply additional materials of their own, including: A wood engraving block ready to print Paper to print an edition on, and for proofing—recommended you have at least 3 full sheets, 26×40.” Mohawk Superfine and Legion Stonehenge work well for engravings. (optional) Personal apron (we’ll have extras in-studio) and/or…

Description from pyramidatlanticartcenter.org