Textiles: starting out in print

What is the course about?

Working on fabric, the course offers a hands-on introduction to different textile print processes: block, silkscreen,
monoprinting and transfer. Create wonderful effects of colour and texture through overprinting and layering.

Explore using pigment and a binder system for printing with repeat systems using found blocks, screen printing
using open screens, and paper stencils to create layers of overlaid colour. Monoprinting combined with silk screen
for textural effects, building layers of transparent colour, shape and texture through overprinting and transfer printing using disperse dyes and a heat press.

There will be opportunities to creatively explore how certain processes might combine; such as block and screen
monoprinting and screen, block and transfer. You will be guided through finding inspiration for shape and texture and colour combinations as part of the design process.

What will we cover?

- The generation of simple design ideas.
- Layout, placement and repeating motifs.
- Reference to printed contemporary textiles.
- The mixing of pigment and binder.
- Printing with disperse dyes.
- Laying cloth and fixing your prints.
- Basics of block, screen, monoprinting and transfer printing techniques
- Layering of overprinted colour and texture.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Prepare a print table and cloth for printing.
- Cut and use a paper stencil to print with.
- Design and make a print block.
- Use basic repeat systems with block printing.
- Mix, print and fix colour using pigment pastes.
- Combine different processes as appropriate
- Use the heat press and, disperse dyes for transfer printing
- Transfer print using, disperse dyes .
- Follow good health and safety practice.
- Produce samples and experiments demonstrating different print techniques.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is aimed at anyone interested in learning fabric printing as a new skill or wanting an re-introduction to the processes. You may be new to textiles or, you may have previous experience of textiles, fashion, art and design and want to add diversity to your practice.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be taught through demonstration, group and individual tuition, discussion, illustration with samples, visual
presentations and hands on practice.
Techniques and processes used will be supported by handouts. You will receive guidance about collecting materials
and researching ideas and some straightforward exercises will be set for you to work on outside of the class.
Handouts and course information can also be accessed via our Google classroom eLearning portal. Details on how you can login will be sent to you prior to the start date.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Access to basic materials and resources are available as part of the course. A notebook and pencil would be useful for taking notes and keeping samples etc. You may wish to bring a digital camera to record work created.
You will also need;
- A sketchbook
- An overall and rubber gloves, and wear old clothes and shoes with a good grip.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit offers a wide selection of courses in Textiles and Contemporary Crafts for beginnners to advanced learners
and professional practitioners. Please browse the website to view our upcoming courses.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is also available from the Student Centre and Library on
Monday to Friday from 12:00-14:00 then 16:00-18:00.