Make small linocut blocks on a variety of surfaces (easy cut, vinyl, and traditional grey lino) and learn how to proof your linocuts with printing methods you can use at home. Then print some final copies using our letterpress hand presses.
10am - 4pm
£65 per person*
Ages 14+
All materials will be provided, however you may want to bring reference images or ideas for your design.
*We have one free workshop space available as part of our community partnership work for 2025. This applies to the Innerleithen & district community council area and the Walkerburn & district area (postcodes EH44 and EH43)
Please apply via email at smails@nts.org.uk with a little bit of information about yourself and why you would like to take up this offer (1-2 sentences is perfect). The deadline for applications has been extended to the 15th of May 2025
Outline
Morning
10am – 12.30pm
Brief tutorial followed by time to cut your own blocks. Try out the different kinds of substrates and cutting tools. Proof your designs using printing methods that require little equipment or things you have at home.
Afternoon
1.30pm – 4pm
Take turns at printing copies of your designs using our hand presses. These are designed for letterpress printing, however they work well for relief printing as well. Learn how to clean up printing inks!
Output
· 1 finished block, 1 practice stamp
· Proofs printed by hand
· At least one finished print of your design
· Advice and information on printmaking papers, tools, and presses or press-less printing
Robert Smail’s is a letterpress printing works in operation since 1866, now in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. Proceeds from our workshops and commercial activities contribute to the conservation of our historic equipment and archives.
The National Trust for Scotland is a charity registered in Scotland, Charity Number SC007410
