About

Learn the basics of etching, one of the oldest & most unique printmaking processes, at the historical Bluecoat Print Studios.

During this one day course you will learn the basics of copper sulphate etching, including learning about the history, tools & materials used in etching and the chemical processes involved in creating an etched metal plate using copper sulfate solution. After designing, drawing and etching your plate you will spend the remainder of the workshop inking and printing your design on our fabulous century old Hughes & Kimber Etching Press.

What’s Included?

All materials you will use are included in the cost of the course, but you are welcome to bring along your own if you choose. Our studios are always striving to be more environmentally friendly and use greener printmaking processes and consumables where possible.

Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?

No, but if you’d like to prepare a drawing or reference image to bring with you to use during your workshop you are more than welcome.

Course Structure

Most printmaking day workshops will follow a similar structure to the one below, but your artist-tutor may assess the needs of the class on the day and make small scheduling changes accordingly. 

• 11am – 11:15pm: Introduction to the day, the process and each other
• 11:15am - 11:30am: health & safety induction
• 11:30am - 1:30pm: workshop teaching time
• 1:30pm - 2pm: Lunch break
• 2pm - 4pm: workshop teaching time
• 4pm - 5pm: free time for participants to ask questions and produce more prints.

What happens after the course?

After you’ve completed your course, you are free to book into our open access printmaking studios. Your course acts as an induction, but if you feel like you would benefit from a free one-to-one induction or more info about our studios, you can book online here: https://shop.thebluecoat.org.uk/products/book-a-free-health-safety-induction

We also offer a Bluecoat Artist Memberships scheme, which has lots of amazing perks for practicing and aspiring local printmakers. You can find out more information and purchase your membership here: https://shop.thebluecoat.org.uk/products/artist-membership

Got any questions?

You can find out general information about the Bluecoat Print Studios here: https://www.thebluecoat.org.uk/our-community/spaces/print-studio

Accessibility:

The Bluecoat cafe, gardens and building floors are accessible for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility with lifts and ramp access. The print studios have step-free access but the studio spaces & equipment have not been adapted to take into consideration any floor space/surface height needs. If you would like to do a print workshop with us but are unsure about accessibility, please contact the Print Studio manager at: Ivy.m@thebluecoat.org.uk

Getting here:

The Bluecoat is located in Liverpool city centre and is easily accessible using public transport.

• The closest bus stop is Tesco Hanover Street
• The closest railway station is Liverpool Central Station

Date

Location

Bluecoat Print Studios
The Bluecoat, School Lane, Liverpool, L1 3BX

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