Printing Workshops
Discover the Joy of Printmaking in Leeds

Our printmaking classes in Leeds introduce a range of creative printing techniques including gel plate printing, lino printing and block printing. These hands-on workshops are led by experienced artists and are suitable for beginners as well as those looking to develop their printmaking skills. All classes take place at Northlight Arts Centre in Chapel Allerton.

Block Printing Workshop in Leeds
Exploring Nature With Aidan Liggins

SATURDAY 1ST AUGUST
10am - 4pm
Tickets: £70 per person (plus £1.50 booking fee)

Join textile designer and printmaker Aidan Liggins for a full-day block printing workshop at Northlight Arts Centre in Leeds.

Running from 10am – 4pm (with a 45–60 minute lunch break), this hands-on printmaking workshop explores pattern design through traditional block printing techniques.

This immersive workshop will be inspired by the garden, plants, colours and textures found in the garden at Northlight Arts.

Through gentle, guided drawing outside, this workshop is about slowing down and recording what we see, using drawing not as a test of skill but as a way of settling the mind and looking more closely. We'll focus on the shape and textures of what we find and what would work well for printing.

These drawings will then be translated into a design which we’ll carve into a lino printing block and print onto fabric. A tactile reminder of time spent noticing, making, and being outdoors.

You'll come away with your unique printed fabric, your printing block to continue printing with and mostly, a new eye for appreciating the everyday nature around us.

Northlight Arts Centre is a creative hub in Chapel Allerton offering art classes and creative workshops in Leeds, including pottery, painting, printmaking and jewellery making.
Explore our full programme of courses and learn new creative skills with practising artists and makers.

  • LINO PRINTING WORKSHOPS

    With Annie Cunniffe

    Lino printing (linocut) is a traditional relief printmaking technique where a design is carved into a sheet of linoleum. The raised surface is rolled with ink and pressed onto paper to create the printed image.

    The carved areas remain blank while the remaining surface prints the design. Known for its bold, graphic qualities, lino printing is a popular way to learn printmaking and create striking handmade prints.

  • GEL PLATE PRINTING WORKSHOPS

    With Annie Cunniffe

    Gel plate printing is an experimental printmaking technique that uses a soft gel surface to create unique monoprints. Acrylic paint is rolled onto the plate and textures, stencils, plants or drawings can be pressed into the surface before paper is laid on top to pull the print.

    Each layer captures colour and texture differently, meaning every print is one-of-a-kind. It’s an accessible and playful way to learn printmaking while exploring colour, pattern and layered compositions.

  • BLOCK PRINTING

    With Aidan Liggins

    Block printing is one of the oldest printmaking techniques. A design is carved into a block of material such as wood or linoleum, inked, and pressed onto paper or fabric to transfer the image.

    Because the same block can be used repeatedly, artists can create patterns, layered colours and small editions of prints. The process combines drawing, carving and printing, making it a rewarding way to learn printmaking.

ABOUT OUR TUTORS

Annie Cunniffe

Annie Cunniffe is a Leeds-based artist and printmaker whose work explores pattern, texture and the beauty of everyday forms. She has a passion for sharing the joy of printmaking with others, teaching in a way that is relaxed, supportive and inspiring. Annie believes creativity is for everyone — her workshops are designed to help you slow down, experiment, and connect with your artistic side. 

Socials/ Website
@annie.cunniffe14

Aidan Liggins

Aidan Liggins is a textile designer and printmaker specialising in traditional block printing techniques. Her work explores pattern, nature and the rhythm of slow handmade processes. Using natural fabrics, water-based inks and carved printing blocks, Aidan creates textiles and teaches workshops that introduce students to the tactile craft of block printing and repeat pattern design.  

Socials/ Website
https://www.aidanliggins.com/