In this two day hands-on workshop we will learn natural printing techniques using locally foraged or found fresh plant materials. The class will provide basic knowledge of botanical contact printing (also called eco-printing) on paper and textiles. The techniques used in class will be environmentally friendly, using a minimum of chemical components and no plastic.

You will learn how to achieve the best possible print outcome, including how to prepare the materials, how and when to use mordants, and how to select the most appropriate plants for the process. We will also explore more advanced contact printing techniques, such as using carrier blankets for mordants and colors. We will finish up the class by assembling a simple textile collage using some of the samples you have created in class.

The workshop fee includes the cost of all materials used to create initial print samples. Provided on the venue website is a list of appropriate papers, and fabrics to bring along for further explorations.

Basic tools such as heated pots, boards, rods, clamps, and string will be available for in-class use.

Taught by Charlottesville artist Lotta Helleberg