Laura Boswell ARE – Printmaker

Teaching and Workshops FAQ

Do I need to bring anything with me?

No, I provide all tools and materials needed for all my courses. It will help to bring sketches or photos to inspire ideas for your print, but if you can’t, not to worry as I also supply books and examples for inspiration. Please try to print out photos rather than relying on using your phone, you’ll need a constant and easily viewed reference while you are working and for me to see when I’m helping you.

I do supply cheap communal watercolours for my Japanese woodblock courses, but if you prefer to have a personal palette, you may like to bring your own selection of tubes of watercolours (not pans).

Do you teach children

I don’t teach in schools, but children from 14 upwards are welcome at my courses if they come on the course along with an adult.

Do I need to design my print ahead of time?

No, each course works to a template size and I always discuss designing for the class one to one with each pupil to ensure a suitable choice of design for the time allowed. By all means do some sketching, but don’t go too far as you may have to re-work your ideas to fit with the workshop’s timescale.

Can I print at home after the course?

Yes, I won’t teach anything that you can’t do at home. All courses come with a fact sheet and my lino course uses a simple table top registration device which I also sell at courses if you like the system.

Will I need to take notes?

No, I provide detailed factsheets with full list of kit, techniques, suppliers and bibliography. That said, you are welcome to take notes, record or film me demonstrating.

Where do I buy kit?

My fact sheets have a supplier list, and there is a list in the Resources above’. The registration devices for printing colour linocut are available from my Shop.

Does it matter if I’m a complete novice?

Not at all: I keep my classes very friendly and supportive and always enjoy introducing starters to printmaking. Never be afraid to ask for repeat explanations or demonstrations if you don’t understand the first time. I’m very happy to take my time to make sure you understand and are comfortable with the process.

Can I take photos or film you?

Yes absolutely, but check with your fellow students before you include them in any pictures as they may not wish to be filmed or photographed.

Why are your advanced courses only open to people who have done your woodblock course?

There are several Japanese woodblock courses available which teach variations of the technique. I teach traditional, authentic Japanese woodblock and I need to make sure all students have the basics of the traditional technique so that everyone is at a similar starting point.

Why are there additional expenses for your courses?

Why I charge expenses.