Printmaking workshops in the UK

Printmaking is a broad term for craft techniques that transfer an inked image from a matrix (a carved block, etched plate, or screen) onto paper or fabric. Common types in UK workshops include linocut (carving a design into linoleum and rolling ink over it), screen printing (pushing ink through a stencilled mesh), gelli printing (using a gelatine plate for fluid, layered prints), and drypoint etching (scratching a design onto an acrylic plate).

A linocut or gelli printing beginner workshop costs £35–£70 for a 2–3 hour session, typically producing several prints to take home. Screen printing workshops run £45–£90. Longer courses (4–6 sessions) covering multiple techniques start from £150 on CraftCourses. ClassBento has the best range of one-off taster sessions. Browse current printmaking workshop prices →

Gelli printing is the most beginner-friendly — you use a gelatine plate (provided in the workshop) with acrylic paint and found textures (leaves, lace, bubble wrap) to make layered, painterly prints. No carving required. Linocut is the next step up — carving linoleum with a gouge, then rolling ink and printing. Screen printing requires more setup but produces the crispest results.

Yes — linocut is very accessible at home. You need lino sheets (£3–£8), carving tools (£8–£20), a rubber roller (brayer, £8–£15), water-based block printing ink (£5–£12), and paper. Total starter cost under £50. Gelli printing is also home-friendly — a Gelli Arts plate costs £15–£30. Screen printing at home is harder without a dedicated setup.

ClassBento lists linocut, screen printing, gelli printing, and drypoint etching workshops across UK cities. CraftCourses is better for longer courses with independent printmaking studios and community print rooms. Many larger cities also have open-access print studios (Bristol Folk House, Edinburgh Printmakers, Glasgow Print Studio) where you can use equipment independently once trained. Find a printmaking workshop near you →