SCREENPRINTING WORKSHOPS
We offer concise yet comprehensive screenprinting (aka silkscreening) workshops on weekday evenings and weekends.
From time to time we will offer intermediate and special topic workshops.
We are frequently considered the leading educator in Ottawa-Gatineau for screenprinting education.
Simple Screenprinting:
Basics
Learn the basics of one-colour printing on paper using paper or vinyl stencils: How screens work; the paper or vinyl stencil process; basics of designing artwork; suitable inks and ink mixing; print techniques for one-colour; drying and clean up; basic screenprinting terminology and list of materials. Plus learn how to print at home, your studio, outdoors and even on the road!
At the end of the workshop, you’ll have the knowledge to create your own artwork and create small art prints on paper or fabric.
> Check out our ideas for stuff you can make.
2-hour session, all materials included. Optional: Take home a kit to get started printing right away.
Screenprinting 101:
Photo Emulsion
Frequency: Approximately every 1-2 months.
Learn the basics of one-colour printing on paper and fabric using the photo emulsion method: How screens work; the photo emulsion process; basics of designing artwork; differences in inks, printing substrates, screen mesh and film work; terminology; one-colour printing techniques; learn how to set up a printing area for one-colour printing, adaptable to a home or studio setting in a small or large space.
Use your own artwork to print or select from our stock images. Take away small art prints on paper, t-shirts or fabric you've brought with you.
> Check out our ideas for stuff you can make.
3-hour session, all materials included. Optional: Take home a kit with your original artwork to get started printing right away.
Screenprinting 201:
Muti-colour
Frequency: 2x a year or private workshops offered.
Learn intermediate techniques through multiple colour printing on paper using the photo emulsion method: Intermediate methods for designing layered artwork; ink mixing and expanding colour range; reclaiming your screen; the registration system; multiple colour effects through two-colour printing techniques; and approximately 4 hours of studio time to print and experiment; learn how to set up a printing area for multiple-colour printing, adaptable to a home or studio setting in a small or large space.
Use your own artwork to print or select from our stock images. Take away small art prints on paper you've brought with you. Note: This workshop will focus on printing on paper, although these techniques can be applied to fabric and other mediums.
> Check out our ideas for stuff you can make.
All materials included.
SPECIAL SESSIONS
Up your game: Explore and experiment with specific elements of screenprinting not covered in the 101 or 201 workshops. Topics covered could include screenprinting and artist books; art and activism; experimental screenprinting; print as collaborative performance; monoprints; Photoshop for screenprinting beginners; DIY publishing; and screenprinting for special occasion workshops.
Subscribe to our newsletter for upcoming special workshops.
GROUP WORKSHOPS
A popular choice for groups of 4-5 people who want to learn together on a specific date. We’ve hosted workshops for non-profits, community organizations, family members, groups of friends, office colleagues, band members, roommates, wedding parties, holiday parties, teambuilding and book clubs. We are flexible!
> Screenprinting 101 only
> Workshops at Possible Worlds
> Select a mutually convenient date
We can also customize workshops, including Teambuilding Workshops, as part of our Mobile Art Studio at your location of choice.
PRIVATE INSTRUCTION
We accomodate private instruction for individuals who learn better in a one-on-one scenario, or who are unable to participate in our workshops due to scheduling constraints.
> Screenprinting 101 only
> Workshops at Possible Worlds
> Select a mutually convenient date
UNIQUE FEATURES OF OUR WORKSHOPS
All levels welcome: Ideal for beginners and intermediate printmakers and creatives who would like to add a new skill to their current skill set.
Use your own artwork and items to print on: Customize your screenprinting workshop experience by printing your own artwork. Or if you’re short on time, select from our stock images. Feel free to also bring fabric, paper, wood and other similar materials to try on. You’ll be able to choose from many different coloured inks in the studio to print your artwork (although black ink always seems to be a favourite!)
Experienced educator: Workshops are led by trilingual (English, French, Filipino) artist and educator Melanie Yugo, Possible Worlds/Spins & Needles Co-Director, with 20 years’ experience of teaching screenprinting. She is considered the go-to source for screenprinting and art education in Ottawa-Gatineau.
Concise yet comprehensive: Our workshop length and content have been fine-tuned based on years of experience, accommodating participants who have scheduling constraints or limited time, while still covering the fundamentals. All materials are provided.
Making in community: Our workshops focus not just on technique but you’ll also get to connect with likeminded folks in the community.
Essentials yet experimental: Participants are encouraged to grasp the important elements of the screenprinting process, yet encouraged to play and explore in a no-pressure, fun setting.
Inspiring art environment: Workshops take place in our studio/shop. Participants can draw inspiration from artworks displayed or for sale. Our aesthetic is contemporary and graphic, and you’ll come face-to-face with some of the freshest graphic art work by local, Canadian and international artists. You’ll also have access to books and publications on screenprinting available in-house.
Small class sizes: Participants are capped at 5 per workshop to accommodate different learning styles and make sure you personally get the technique right.
Post-workshop setup: Participants are given the information they need to continue printing easily at home.
Optional screenprinting starter set: Participants can continue to print or practice their technique by taking home their 10x14” screen with image or blank screen, as well as a a professional grade squeegee.
STUFF YOU CAN MAKE
Artist books
Art prints
T-shirts
Tote bags
Stationery
Wallpaper
Band merchandise
Clothing line
Holiday gifts
Shower and wedding favours
Product packaging.