Workshops
Are you interested in learning relief printmaking? Join BIG INK’s Lyell Castonguay for a professionally led woodblock carving workshop in 2024. Castonguay can teach you the technique, and no experience is required.
Online and in-person instruction
Discover the satisfaction of drawing, carving, and printing a 24 by 36-inch woodblock with the online masterclass led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Carve your design from the comfort of your home. A pre-recorded video series expertly guides you, and links in the class show you where to purchase the essential supplies, including wood and carving tools. If you have questions, Castonguay is an email or phone call away.
The workshop concludes with meeting Castonguay at one of the art centers listed on this page. You’ll learn proper woodblock printing techniques, including applying ink to the carving you created at home. By the end of the day of in-person instruction, you will have multiple impressions of your design printed on acid-free paper. Other students will be present, providing knowledge-sharing and collaboration opportunities.
Lyell teaches a growing community of artists that come from a variety of backgrounds. No prior wood carving experience is necessary, and individuals of all skill levels will find joy in the process. Castonguay sends a personal welcome email after registration with learning resources to get you started.
Professional equipment, supplies, and a new student network
Castonguay brings a custom-built giant printing press to every workshop. The press is affectionately named The Big Tuna due to its size and strength. It is a precise machine that creates flawless woodblock prints. Workshop registrants receive three prints produced by The Big Tuna.
Complimentary gifts arrive by mail from our sponsors after you register. Legion Paper sends a selection of carefully chosen papers, and Speedball Art Products sends a sample kit of printmaking supplies, including ink, paper, a brayer, and other items. The box features a printed design made by Castonguay.
BIG INK’s online forum, launched in 2023, is a print-focused community network exclusively for workshop registrants. Students can ask questions and seek advice. After the workshop, you can continue using the platform to share updates with other members.

Ready to carve your creative path? See the workshop for 2024 below!
Hello There!
My name is Lyell Castonguay, Co-Founder of BIG INK. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out via the contact form below. I look forward to hearing from you.

private workshops
Hire BIG INK for a private, multi-day group workshop. Our service includes travel to your location and set-up of The Big Tuna, our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Does your group have limited woodblock carving experience? That is okay. Workshop participants will follow our instructions through the process.