Learn how to block print in this creative workshop led by artist Louisa Loakes. Create your own design and print beautiful patterned fabric at home.

After a brief history of block printing, take inspiration from Louisa’s collection of traditional Indian block-printed textiles before creating your own design and fabric.

MATERIALS

In order to take part in the workshop, participants will need a number of materials. Most materials can be found in the home and some can be ordered online in advance.

Please find a list and some useful links below to the relevant materials:

SOURCE IN ADVANCE

• Cotton or linen fabric, or an item of clothing to print on. The fabric must have an even/flat weave. The workshop requires 1 or 2 metres of fabric. Standard cottons or calico work well and can be purchased by following these links:
  Calico
  Organic cotton
• You’ll also need ink for printing onto fabric, which you can purchase here:
  Fabric printing ink

AROUND THE HOME

• Small sharp knife
• Different sized forks
• Large and medium sized potatoes
• Other items for printmaking such as pastry cutters, egg cups or any other interesting shapes for mark-making
• Flat plastic tray, such as a take-away tub
• Sturdy table covered with old sheet and blanket
• Small pieces of scrap material such as old tea-towels, old clothing, cotton bags

Please email Louisa if you have any questions regarding the materials required for this workshop at: luizaloakes@hotmail.com

ABOUT

Louisa Loakes trained formally at Wimbledon School of Art and has a background in painting. Through her practice, she explores a combination of abstract painting and textile work.

ACCESS

• The event will last approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• There will be no formal breaks but the session will be relaxed.
• The event involves listening, participating in the activity including carving potatoes and using household materials to print onto fabric.
• Participants can choose whether or not to be visible during the workshop.
• The event will not be captioned.