Discover the magic of etching and create your own small series of beautiful intaglio prints.

On this one day workshop you’ll learn how to etch metal printing plates, such as zinc and aluminium, using hard wax grounds and copper sulphate solution. Copper sulphate offers a safer, less toxic alternative to the traditional use of nitric acid, making it a great way to explore etching in a more accessible studio environment.

We’ll take you through the process step by step, from preparing and drawing into your plate to inking and printing your finished designs. You’ll have the chance to experiment with a range of etching tools, including scribes and roulette wheels, to create different textures, lines and marks.

Along the way, you’ll learn how to apply and work with oil-based inks, soak and prepare paper, and use simple registration techniques to get your prints beautifully aligned. There’ll also be plenty of opportunity to experiment with different papers and coloured inks and see how they change the look and feel of your prints.