Japanese Wood Block Printing

Explore this captivating Japanese woodblock printing technique made famous by artists like Hokusai and his iconic Great Wave. Unlike Western printmaking, which relies on oil-based inks and heavy printing equipment, Mokuhanga is a wonderfully accessible and eco-friendly method that uses water-based inks and requires no press, making it perfect for artists of all levels, even in small or home studios. Led by WYPW Technician and expert printmaker Kathryn Desforges, who has studied this technique in Japan, you’ll not only gain practical skills but also a deep appreciation for the possibilities of Mokuhanga as an art form.

On this hands-on day workshop, you’ll explore the fundamentals of Mokuhanga, from designing your image to transferring and carving your design using precision woodcarving tools. You’ll then bring your creation to life by hand-printing your block with watercolor paints, producing a small edition of A5 prints to take home.

Suitable for complete beginners, this course offers the perfect balance of guidance and creative freedom. Mokuhanga’s tactile, meditative process can be wonderfully relaxing, allowing you to sink into a satisfying “flow state” as you carve and print. While the carving does require some dexterity, and the printing some good wrist strength, the joy of watching your designs come to life makes every step of the process rewarding.

Your workshop includes:

• A complimentary drink on arrival.
• A delicious lunch from our café menu.

Before the workshop, we’ll be in touch to ask you to choose your lunch and let us know of any dietary requirements, so everything is ready for you on the day.