Print and Stitch - Arnold Library - Adult Learning

Each week you will be exploring different ways to print onto fabric and paper and experiment with embellishing the surface using simple embroidery stitches. You will be exploring a range of relevant artists and their work and use a variety of printing techniques to create a series of small artworks inspired by the artist’s work.

The course will build your confidence in using different art materials, mediums and techniques, and you will have the opportunity to try out ones that you have probably never used before. You will be guided through demonstrations and individual tuition to encourage experimentation and to build your knowledge and skills for future art and designs projects.

You will be exploring techniques such as mono printing, gelli printing, block printing and stenciling and using a range of mediums including acrylic paint, water-based printing ink and acrylic inks.

You will be introduced to a wide range of artists and their work through PowerPoint presentations, viewing online videos and in person having access to a variety of books to help inspire you and for you to gain knowledge about this exciting genre of art.

Prior skills or knowledge is not necessary. This course is suitable for beginners and equally those with prior knowledge of printing, mixed media or stitch too.

If possible it would be helpful if each learners could think of an idea of a general personal theme before attending the course. For example, it could be purely about different shapes. It could be a nature theme – different types of flowers or the colours and textures of the sea. Please don’t worry if you can’t think of one, we’ll work together to come up with an idea!

Please note there is no session 16/11/2026.

Please bring:

• A notebook and pen.

• An apron or old clothes.

Suggested Reading for the course:

Susan McCreevy – Gel Plate Printing

Gill Thompson – Exploring Printmaking: A Practical Guide to Printmaking Techniques

Cas Holmes – Textile Landscape