Big Ink

Can I register for this workshop, having never carved a woodblock?

Beginners are welcome! You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.

What are the highlights of participating in this workshop?

What materials are included in this workshop?

BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and assistance printing your woodblock.

What materials am I required to purchase?

You purchase wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving with Power Grip brand tools.  Our preferred substrates are Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, and Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF).  Cherry plywood can be purchased on HomeDepot.com, Shina at McClain’s Printmaking, and Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) at any local building supply store. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness. The cost of the material depends on the wood type and size. An average materials cost estimate is $100.

Can my group register for this workshop?

Three people can collaborate on carving a single board. Please list collaborators’ names and social media handles at checkout.

Are there size restrictions for my woodblock?

The minimum and maximum size is listed under the workshop summary.

Can I carve linoleum for this workshop?

No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is easy to carve and inexpensive.

Can I print in color for this workshop?

Due to limited time and working space, color printing cannot be accommodated. Your woodblock is printed on white Masa paper using black Speedball Oil-Based Relief Ink.

Can I register for multiple workshops in the same year?

Yes

Can I receive discounted registration?

Consider working with a team to share the cost of the workshop. Student scholarships are also available on a rolling basis.

What is this workshop’s refund policy?

Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable to another location.

What if a workshop is canceled?

If the organizer cancels a workshop, you will be given the option to transfer to another workshop within the same year. If you do not wish to transfer, you will receive a refund equal to the original registration price minus a $275 class subscription fee. The master class subscription stays active for one year, regardless of whether an in-person meeting occurs. The exception to this rule is if you have participated in a workshop within the past two years. In that case, you’ll receive a full refund if you do not wish to transfer to another workshop.

Am I required to attend both days of in-person instruction?

You are required to attend only one in-person instruction day. Your assignment will be sent to you via email beforehand.

Can I ship my woodblock to the venue where this workshop occurs?

You may ship your woodblock to the venue, but please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Also, plan to include a return label in the package.

What is the best way to transport an oversized woodblock?

We recommend cutting your woodblock in half, if it’s over 6 feet long, before carving. These sections can be pieced together on the press. Remember that each cut will create a thin white line in the finished print, so plan your design accordingly.

Will my information be kept private?

Your mailing address will be shared with our workshop hosting partners, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a sample kit of printmaking supplies. Otherwise, we do not share your information with third parties.

Who should I contact with additional questions?

Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.