Printmaking Etching (All levels)

Etching is an artistic discipline by which images can be created on metal using a variety of different processes, including the use of acid, then printed onto specialized printmaking papers.
Multiple prints can be made from a plate to form a limited edition of work, each one of which is an ‘original.

What The Course is About:

Etching is a printing process by which an image is drawn and etched onto a metal plate using acid. Once the plate has been made, multiple images can be taken from it. As a process it follows on from engraving, but is more fluid. It was used by painters to reproduce their paintings. The origins of etching are with Goldsmiths, metal chasers and more particularly by the armourer and gunmaker, long before it was used in the making of prints. You will be taught on a one to one level or small group situation, including mutually beneficial talks, which will be illustrated and demonstrated. NOTE: Asthma sufferers may be affected adversely by some of the chemicals used in the etching process and should wear a protective mask. If you are pregnant you may need to take medical advice before enrolling on the course.

Materials Required:

What to bring to the first session: No special tools required at the start of the course, basic etching tools are available to borrow until students purchase their own, and can select the ones most relevant to their own practice. More experienced students should bring their tools, and any ongoing plates etc. to the first session. Please bring basic equipment to each class, such as: Notebook and pen, pencils 2H, HB, 2B, 6B. You will need some basic small paint brushes, which can be purchased from the school shop.

Previous Experience:

All Levels from complete beginners to experienced etchers.

End of course:

What will I achieve? On this course you will learn: 1. Plate preparation. 2. Methods of etching including: hard ground, soft ground, sugar-lift aquatint, drypoint. 3. Methods of printing including: double plate registration & chine colle. 4. How to do a graphite transfer. 5. How to select appropriate methods of working to achieve your desired results. As a beginner you will be taught all the basic processes to enable you to work independently. And with the support of the tutor, to select methods with which you can create your own etchings. As a more experienced printmaker you will be able to discuss your projects and ideas on a 1:1 basis with the tutor, to enable you to stretch your skills and ideas and gain advice on how to achieve them.