Get hands-on with bold colour and creative printmaking on this fun and practical one day screen printing workshop. Perfect for beginners, this session will introduce you to the exciting process of printing your own designs onto fabric using professional screen printing tools and equipment here at Leeds Print Workshop.

Throughout the day, you’ll learn the complete screen printing process from start to finish, experimenting with colour, imagery, and layering techniques as you create your own custom printed textiles.

During the workshop we’ll cover:

• Creating artwork and imagery for screen printing
• Preparing screens
• Mixing and working with textile inks
• Screen printing techniques for fabric
• Heat setting and fixing inks to make your prints washable and long lasting

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with your own hand-printed t-shirt and tote bag, plus a collection of textile samples and the confidence to continue exploring screen printing independently.

Who is the workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for complete beginners, anyone curious about printmaking, or those wanting to learn how to use the screen printing facilities at Leeds Print Workshop. No previous experience is needed, just enthusiasm to experiment and get creative.

What will I make?

You’ll design and screen print your own tote bag and t-shirt to take home, along with a selection of printed fabric samples that could be developed into wall hangings, patches, cushions, sewing projects, or future creative ideas.

Do I need to bring anything?

A plain t-shirt, tote bag, and fabric sample pieces will all be provided, along with all inks, tools, and equipment needed for the workshop.

If you have additional cotton or linen fabrics you’d like to print onto such as tea towels, pillowcases, or lightweight fabric items, feel free to bring them along.

It’s also helpful to bring along some simple black and white drawings, photographs, or images for inspiration when developing your design ideas.

Who is my tutor?

Carl McCarron is an artist who works primarily with screen printing processes and is fascinated with the idea of fictions and images of illegality. He enjoys toying with the laws of copyright. He is interested in colour and the effects of multiple layers of transparency.

Carl loves to print and works as one of our technicians, supporting our members during open access sessions. He also teaches our monthly Printed By Us screen printing sessions in collaboration with St Georges Crypt, which is part of a recovery programme for people who have experienced complex issues such as addiction and homelessness.