public workshops
Learn to carve a woodblock at home following our online course. Then meet a team of professional printers at a leading cultural center. We print your finished carving on The Big Tuna, our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Are you ready to get hands-on? See upcoming workshops below.
This blended learning workshop will teach you how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions! First, you carve a design at home following BIG INK’s online master course. Then, you meet the BIG INK team at 3S Artspace in Portsmouth, NH, and we print your finished carving on The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Take this opportunity to work at an ambitious scale (from 24 by 36 to 40 by 96 inches) and see your woodblock professionally printed!
No prior printmaking experience is necessary, and we encourage individuals of all skill levels. Class access begins after you register. The earlier you sign-up, the more time you’ll have to carve. Registrants must attend one in-person printing day, either August 26 or 27, 2023, which BIG INK assigns following the registration deadline. There are 16 slots available, and the registration deadline is June 19, 2023.
about the course
You’ll have a minimum of two months to create your carving while following an online course led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Work at your own pace and gain a comprehensive understanding as he draws, carves, and prints a 24 by 36-inch woodblock. Course videos cover the following subjects —
✔️ Recommended materials
✔️ Simplifying photo-based designs
✔️ Image enlargement
✔️ Small image transfer
✔️ Using carving tools
✔️ Creating textures
✔️ Tool honing
✔️ Dry, wet, and press proofing
✔️ Fixing mistakes
✔️ Utilizing power tools
✔️ Making a custom display and more!
about the print day
You and your fellow workshop participants will meet on an assigned day. We print three impressions per participant. Lend a helping hand by holding paper or hanging prints. It is a chance to create friendships. In addition, the printing days are open for public viewing. Invite friends and family to celebrate your artistic accomplishment!
We support an inclusive community of people that come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never carved a woodblock, while others have participated multiple times.
Lyell and Carand are smart, kind, and creative workshop leaders. I learned a ton, had fun, met great artists, and made a few gorgeous prints of my work. Build a wider community and make some great art! If you can, you must partake in the Big Ink experience!
— Jenna Philpott, Artist
3S Artspace is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit contemporary arts organization that combines the only midsize, flexible Performance Space of its kind in the area, a large contemporary art Gallery, a Lobby Gallery, and a restaurant partner serving as a local hub, ideal as a gathering place for all. 3S is dedicated to presenting and supporting bold, emerging art and entertainment and cultivating an informal space for exchanging ideas and creativity.
What are the highlights of participating in a BIG INK workshop?
Participation highlights include access to our online course, a printmaking supplies sample kit, a paper sample pack, and three professionally made prints.
Can I register having never carved a woodblock?
Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to register. You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.
Can my group register for a public workshop?
A group of up to three people may register to carve a single woodblock. Please list your names in the “Order Notes” field when registering. For larger groups, please read more about our private workshops.
Will my information be kept private?
Your mailing address will be shared with our sponsors, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a printmaking supplies sample kit. Otherwise, BIG INK does not share your information with third parties.
What materials are provided in the workshop?
BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and people to help print your carving.
What materials do I purchase?
Workshop participants purchase their wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness.
How big can I work?
The maximum allowed woodblock size is 40 by 96 inches.
How big do you recommend I work?
We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Can I carve linoleum?
No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is easy to work with and prints well.
Can I print in color?
We cannot accommodate color printing due to limited time and working space. We print using black oil-based ink on white paper.
Are scholarships available?
We do not offer scholarships to first-time workshop participants. However, BIG INK draws randomly and awards four scholarships per event to returning participants.
A previous BIG INK participant must register for another public workshop to be considered. Those who receive the award are notified after the registration deadline.
Can I register for multiple workshops in a year?
Yes
What is BIG INK’s refund policy?
Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We will offer you the choice of a refund or credit in the event BIG INK cancels a workshop.
Do I need to be present when my woodblock is printed?
Yes
Am I required to attend both in-person printing days?
You are required to attend only one in-person printing day. You will receive an email with your assignment shortly following the registration deadline.
Can I ship my carved woodblock to the venue?
Please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Include a return label in the package.
How do I transport a large woodblock on an airplane or car?
We recommend cutting your wood to fit inside a drawing portfolio 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.
Who should I contact with questions?
Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.
This blended learning workshop will teach you how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions! First, you carve a design at home following BIG INK’s online master course. Then, you meet the BIG INK team at the Center for Contemporary Printmaking in Norwalk, CT, and we print your finished carving on The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Take this opportunity to work at an ambitious scale (from 24 by 36 to 40 by 96 inches) and see your woodblock professionally printed!
No prior printmaking experience is necessary, and we encourage individuals of all skill levels. Class access begins after you register. The earlier you sign-up, the more time you’ll have to carve. Registrants must attend one in-person printing day, either September 30 or October 1, 2023, which BIG INK assigns following the registration deadline. There are 16 slots available, and the registration deadline is July 23, 2023.
about the course
You’ll have a minimum of two months to create your carving while following an online course led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Work at your own pace and gain a comprehensive understanding as he draws, carves, and prints a 24 by 36-inch woodblock. Course videos cover the following subjects —
✔️ Recommended materials
✔️ Simplifying photo-based designs
✔️ Image enlargement
✔️ Small image transfer
✔️ Using carving tools
✔️ Creating textures
✔️ Tool honing
✔️ Dry, wet, and press proofing
✔️ Fixing mistakes
✔️ Utilizing power tools
✔️ Making a custom display and more!
about the print day
You and your fellow workshop participants will meet on an assigned day. We print three impressions per participant. Lend a helping hand by holding paper or hanging prints. It is a chance to create friendships. In addition, the printing days are open for public viewing. Invite friends and family to celebrate your artistic accomplishment!
We support an inclusive community of people that come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never carved a woodblock, while others have participated multiple times.
Lyell and Carand are smart, kind, and creative workshop leaders. I learned a ton, had fun, met great artists, and made a few gorgeous prints of my work. Build a wider community and make some great art! If you can, you must partake in the Big Ink experience!
— Jenna Philpott, Artist
The Center for Contemporary Printmaking is a non-profit fine art printmaking facility hosting highly-respected museum-quality exhibitions and diverse workshop opportunities. It is fully equipped to accommodate all printmaking techniques: intaglio, lithography, monotype, silkscreen, woodblock printing, papermaking, book arts, and digital processes.
What are the highlights of participating in a BIG INK workshop?
Participation highlights include access to our online course, a printmaking supplies sample kit, a paper sample pack, and three professionally made prints.
Can I register having never carved a woodblock?
Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to register. You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.
Can my group register for a public workshop?
A group of up to three people may register to carve a single woodblock. Please list your names in the “Order Notes” field when registering. For larger groups, please read more about our private workshops.
Will my information be kept private?
Your mailing address will be shared with our sponsors, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a printmaking supplies sample kit. Otherwise, BIG INK does not share your information with third parties.
What materials are provided in the workshop?
BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and people to help print your carving.
What materials do I purchase?
Workshop participants purchase their wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness.
How big can I work?
The maximum allowed woodblock size is 40 by 96 inches.
How big do you recommend I work?
We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Can I carve linoleum?
No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is easy to work with and prints well.
Can I print in color?
We cannot accommodate color printing due to limited time and working space. We print using black oil-based ink on white paper.
Are scholarships available?
We do not offer scholarships to first-time workshop participants. However, BIG INK draws randomly and awards four scholarships per event to returning participants.
A previous BIG INK participant must register for another public workshop to be considered. Those who receive the award are notified after the registration deadline.
Can I register for multiple workshops in a year?
Yes
What is BIG INK’s refund policy?
Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We will offer you the choice of a refund or credit in the event BIG INK cancels a workshop.
Do I need to be present when my woodblock is printed?
Yes
Am I required to attend both in-person printing days?
You are required to attend only one in-person printing day. You will receive an email with your assignment shortly following the registration deadline.
Can I ship my carved woodblock to the venue?
Please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Include a return label in the package.
How do I transport a large woodblock on an airplane or car?
We recommend cutting your wood to fit inside a drawing portfolio 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.
Who should I contact with questions?
Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.
This blended learning workshop will teach you how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions! First, you carve a design at home following BIG INK’s online master course. Then, you meet the BIG INK team at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center in Hyattsville, MD, and we print your finished carving on The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Take this opportunity to work at an ambitious scale (from 24 by 36 to 40 by 96 inches) and see your woodblock professionally printed!
No prior printmaking experience is necessary, and we encourage individuals of all skill levels. Class access begins after you register. The earlier you sign-up, the more time you’ll have to carve. Registrants must attend one in-person printing day, either October 14 or 15, 2023, which BIG INK assigns following the registration deadline. There are 16 slots available, and the registration deadline is July 23, 2023.
about the course
You’ll have a minimum of two months to create your carving while following an online course led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Work at your own pace and gain a comprehensive understanding as he draws, carves, and prints a 24 by 36-inch woodblock. Course videos cover the following subjects —
✔️ Recommended materials
✔️ Simplifying photo-based designs
✔️ Image enlargement
✔️ Small image transfer
✔️ Using carving tools
✔️ Creating textures
✔️ Tool honing
✔️ Dry, wet, and press proofing
✔️ Fixing mistakes
✔️ Utilizing power tools
✔️ Making a custom display and more!
about the print day
You and your fellow workshop participants will meet on an assigned day. We print three impressions per participant. Lend a helping hand by holding paper or hanging prints. It is a chance to create friendships. In addition, the printing days are open for public viewing. Invite friends and family to celebrate your artistic accomplishment!
We support an inclusive community of people that come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never carved a woodblock, while others have participated multiple times.
Lyell and Carand are smart, kind, and creative workshop leaders. I learned a ton, had fun, met great artists, and made a few gorgeous prints of my work. Build a wider community and make some great art! If you can, you must partake in the Big Ink experience!
— Jenna Philpott, Artist
Pyramid’s mission is to create a collaborative community that fosters the artistic disciplines of papermaking, printmaking, and book arts. They equip, educate, and exhibit in Hyattsville. The center’s vision is to create an artistic hub in Hyattsville that inspires local and international artists, elevates the local arts and small business scene, and enhances the quality of life for artists and neighbors.
What are the highlights of participating in a BIG INK workshop?
Participation highlights include access to our online course, a printmaking supplies sample kit, a paper sample pack, and three professionally made prints.
Can I register having never carved a woodblock?
Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to register. You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.
Can my group register for a public workshop?
A group of up to three people may register to carve a single woodblock. Please list your names in the “Order Notes” field when registering. For larger groups, please read more about our private workshops.
Will my information be kept private?
Your mailing address will be shared with our sponsors, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a printmaking supplies sample kit. Otherwise, BIG INK does not share your information with third parties.
What materials are provided in the workshop?
BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and people to help print your carving.
What materials do I purchase?
Workshop participants purchase their wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness.
How big can I work?
The maximum allowed woodblock size is 40 by 96 inches.
How big do you recommend I work?
We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Can I carve linoleum?
No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is easy to work with and prints well.
Can I print in color?
We cannot accommodate color printing due to limited time and working space. We print using black oil-based ink on white paper.
Are scholarships available?
We do not offer scholarships to first-time workshop participants. However, BIG INK draws randomly and awards four scholarships per event to returning participants.
A previous BIG INK participant must register for another public workshop to be considered. Those who receive the award are notified after the registration deadline.
Can I register for multiple workshops in a year?
Yes
What is BIG INK’s refund policy?
Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We will offer you the choice of a refund or credit in the event BIG INK cancels a workshop.
Do I need to be present when my woodblock is printed?
Yes
Am I required to attend both in-person printing days?
You are required to attend only one in-person printing day. You will receive an email with your assignment shortly following the registration deadline.
Can I ship my carved woodblock to the venue?
Please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Include a return label in the package.
How do I transport a large woodblock on an airplane or car?
We recommend cutting your wood to fit inside a drawing portfolio 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.
Who should I contact with questions?
Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.
This blended learning workshop will teach you how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions! First, you carve a design at home following BIG INK’s online master course. Then, you meet the BIG INK team at the McColl Center in Charlotte, NC, and we print your finished carving on The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Take this opportunity to work at an ambitious scale (from 24 by 36 to 40 by 96 inches) and see your woodblock professionally printed!
No prior printmaking experience is necessary, and we encourage individuals of all skill levels. Class access begins after you register. The earlier you sign-up, the more time you’ll have to carve. Registrants must attend one in-person printing day, either October 21 or 22, 2023, which BIG INK assigns following the registration deadline. There are 16 slots available, and the registration deadline is July 23, 2023.
about the course
You’ll have a minimum of two months to create your carving while following an online course led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Work at your own pace and gain a comprehensive understanding as he draws, carves, and prints a 24 by 36-inch woodblock. Course videos cover the following subjects —
✔️ Recommended materials
✔️ Simplifying photo-based designs
✔️ Image enlargement
✔️ Small image transfer
✔️ Using carving tools
✔️ Creating textures
✔️ Tool honing
✔️ Dry, wet, and press proofing
✔️ Fixing mistakes
✔️ Utilizing power tools
✔️ Making a custom display and more!
about the print day
You and your fellow workshop participants will meet on an assigned day. We print three impressions per participant. Lend a helping hand by holding paper or hanging prints. It is a chance to create friendships. In addition, the printing days are open for public viewing. Invite friends and family to celebrate your artistic accomplishment!
We support an inclusive community of people that come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never carved a woodblock, while others have participated multiple times.
Lyell and Carand are smart, kind, and creative workshop leaders. I learned a ton, had fun, met great artists, and made a few gorgeous prints of my work. Build a wider community and make some great art! If you can, you must partake in the Big Ink experience!
— Jenna Philpott, Artist
McColl Center is an acclaimed artist residency and contemporary art space in Charlotte, North Carolina. We believe art thrives when artists do. This one-of-a-kind place is a source of creative inspiration, growth, and support. McColl Center is where artists and people who care about them converge, connect, and thrive. As a hub for creativity and catalyst for growth, McColl Center is committed to artists first, offering subsidized artist studios, modern equipment and tools, entrepreneurship programs, and 5,000 sq. ft. of gallery space to exhibit and sell work.
What are the highlights of participating in a BIG INK workshop?
Participation highlights include access to our online course, a printmaking supplies sample kit, a paper sample pack, and three professionally made prints.
Can I register having never carved a woodblock?
Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to register. You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.
Can my group register for a public workshop?
A group of up to three people may register to carve a single woodblock. Please list your names in the “Order Notes” field when registering. For larger groups, please read more about our private workshops.
Will my information be kept private?
Your mailing address will be shared with our sponsors, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a printmaking supplies sample kit. Otherwise, BIG INK does not share your information with third parties.
What materials are provided in the workshop?
BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and people to help print your carving.
What materials do I purchase?
Workshop participants purchase their wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness.
How big can I work?
The maximum allowed woodblock size is 40 by 96 inches.
How big do you recommend I work?
We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Can I carve linoleum?
No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is easy to work with and prints well.
Can I print in color?
We cannot accommodate color printing due to limited time and working space. We print using black oil-based ink on white paper.
Are scholarships available?
We do not offer scholarships to first-time workshop participants. However, BIG INK draws randomly and awards four scholarships per event to returning participants.
A previous BIG INK participant must register for another public workshop to be considered. Those who receive the award are notified after the registration deadline.
Can I register for multiple workshops in a year?
Yes
What is BIG INK’s refund policy?
Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We will offer you the choice of a refund or credit in the event BIG INK cancels a workshop.
Do I need to be present when my woodblock is printed?
Yes
Am I required to attend both in-person printing days?
You are required to attend only one in-person printing day. You will receive an email with your assignment shortly following the registration deadline.
Can I ship my carved woodblock to the venue?
Please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Include a return label in the package.
How do I transport a large woodblock on an airplane or car?
We recommend cutting your wood to fit inside a drawing portfolio 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.
Who should I contact with questions?
Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.
Atlantic Center for the Arts: Harris House
New Smyrna Beach, FL
Saturday & Sunday
Oct 28 & 29, 2023
$300
This blended learning workshop will teach you how to make a woodblock print of epic proportions! First, you carve a design at home following BIG INK’s online master course. Then, you meet the BIG INK team at the Atlantic Center for the Arts: Harris House in New Smyrna Beach, FL, and we print your finished carving on The Big Tuna: our custom-designed giant mobile printing press. Take this opportunity to work at an ambitious scale (from 24 by 36 to 40 by 96 inches) and see your woodblock professionally printed!
No prior printmaking experience is necessary, and we encourage individuals of all skill levels. Class access begins after you register. The earlier you sign-up, the more time you’ll have to carve. Registrants must attend one in-person printing day, either October 28 or 29, 2023, which BIG INK assigns following the registration deadline. There are 16 slots available, and the registration deadline is July 23, 2023.
about the course
You’ll have a minimum of two months to create your carving while following an online course led by instructor Lyell Castonguay. Work at your own pace and gain a comprehensive understanding as he draws, carves, and prints a 24 by 36-inch woodblock. Course videos cover the following subjects —
✔️ Recommended materials
✔️ Simplifying photo-based designs
✔️ Image enlargement
✔️ Small image transfer
✔️ Using carving tools
✔️ Creating textures
✔️ Tool honing
✔️ Dry, wet, and press proofing
✔️ Fixing mistakes
✔️ Utilizing power tools
✔️ Making a custom display and more!
about the print day
You and your fellow workshop participants will meet on an assigned day. We print three impressions per participant. Lend a helping hand by holding paper or hanging prints. It is a chance to create friendships. In addition, the printing days are open for public viewing. Invite friends and family to celebrate your artistic accomplishment!
We support an inclusive community of people that come from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never carved a woodblock, while others have participated multiple times.
Lyell and Carand are smart, kind, and creative workshop leaders. I learned a ton, had fun, met great artists, and made a few gorgeous prints of my work. Build a wider community and make some great art! If you can, you must partake in the Big Ink experience!
— Jenna Philpott, Artist
Atlantic Center for the Arts is a nonprofit interdisciplinary artists’ community and arts education facility dedicated to promoting artistic excellence by providing talented mid-career artists an opportunity to work and collaborate with some of the world’s most distinguished contemporary artists in the fields of music composition, and the visual, literary, and performing arts. Community interaction is coordinated through on-site and outreach presentations, workshops, and exhibitions.
What are the highlights of participating in a BIG INK workshop?
Participation highlights include access to our online course, a printmaking supplies sample kit, a paper sample pack, and three professionally made prints.
Can I register having never carved a woodblock?
Individuals of all skill levels are encouraged to register. You’ll learn the woodblock carving and printing process through online and in-person instruction.
Can my group register for a public workshop?
A group of up to three people may register to carve a single woodblock. Please list your names in the “Order Notes” field when registering. For larger groups, please read more about our private workshops.
Will my information be kept private?
Your mailing address will be shared with our sponsors, Legion Paper and Speedball Art Products. Legion will send you a paper sample pack, and Speedball will send a printmaking supplies sample kit. Otherwise, BIG INK does not share your information with third parties.
What materials are provided in the workshop?
BIG INK supplies consumable materials (ink, acid-free printing paper, newsprint, cleaning supplies), equipment, and people to help print your carving.
What materials do I purchase?
Workshop participants purchase their wood and carving tools separately. BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2” in thickness.
How big can I work?
The maximum allowed woodblock size is 40 by 96 inches.
How big do you recommend I work?
We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Can I carve linoleum?
No, workshop participants are required to carve wood. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) is easy to work with and prints well.
Can I print in color?
We cannot accommodate color printing due to limited time and working space. We print using black oil-based ink on white paper.
Are scholarships available?
We do not offer scholarships to first-time workshop participants. However, BIG INK draws randomly and awards four scholarships per event to returning participants.
A previous BIG INK participant must register for another public workshop to be considered. Those who receive the award are notified after the registration deadline.
Can I register for multiple workshops in a year?
Yes
What is BIG INK’s refund policy?
Workshop registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. We will offer you the choice of a refund or credit in the event BIG INK cancels a workshop.
Do I need to be present when my woodblock is printed?
Yes
Am I required to attend both in-person printing days?
You are required to attend only one in-person printing day. You will receive an email with your assignment shortly following the registration deadline.
Can I ship my carved woodblock to the venue?
Please let us know beforehand so we can inform our hosting partner. Include a return label in the package.
How do I transport a large woodblock on an airplane or car?
We recommend cutting your wood to fit inside a drawing portfolio 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.
Who should I contact with questions?
Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.
Meet Lyell.
Hello there! If you have questions about workshops, please don’t hesitate to ask. Hear me describe the BIG INK experience by clicking the video button below.
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.
Can I book a private workshop having no printmaking experience?
No prior experience is required. Participants learn the woodblock printmaking process through online and in-person instruction.
How much-advanced notice is recommended?
Eight months
Will my information be kept private?
Yes, we use the information from your application solely to evaluate your request.
How much does a private workshop cost?
Our rate is $5,000 for a two-day workshop within 300 miles of our Livermore Falls, Maine home. Our travel fee is 50¢ per mile past 300.
What is the workshop payment schedule?
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to hold the workshop dates. The remaining balance is due the day services are rendered.
When is the workshop officially scheduled?
Once we receive the deposit and a signed agreement.
Are there any other additional expenses?
One room (three-night lodging) is required for workshops more than an hour’s drive from our home.
How long does a workshop run?
Two days, usually 10 am – 5 pm
How many can participate?
Sixteen, eight each day.
Can participants collaborate on one woodblock?
Yes, group collaboration on a woodblock counts as 1 participant.
How big can workshop participants work?
Woodblocks can be no larger than 40 by 96 inches in dimension. We recommend creating a 24 by 36-inch woodblock if this is your first carving.
Who pays for materials?
BIG INK supplies printing ink and acid-free printing paper. You can supply participants with a carving substrate and tools or require them to purchase them separately.
What carving substrates and tools are recommended?
BIG INK recommends carving Cherry Plywood, Shina Plywood, Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF), and Power Grip brand carving tools. The wood must be either 3/8″ or 1/2″ in thickness. Our online course goes into greater detail on the subject.
Can a workshop be held outdoors?
No
What is provided for the workshop?
BIG INK provides non-toxic cleaning supplies, work tables, inking rollers, a hanging paper system, and a printing press.
What are the space requirements?
The workshop space needs to be handicap accessible, have 26 inches of minimum doorway clearance, 26 by 65 inches of minimum elevator clearance, a minimum of 500 square feet, a loading zone, and one reserved parking space.
When do set-up and breakdown occur?
BIG INK arrives the day before the workshop to set up, and we break down on the evening of the last day of the workshop.
How does BIG INK transport equipment?
We travel in a Ford Econoline cargo van. A loading zone and reserved parking space are required.
Who do I contact to schedule a workshop?
Please submit this form to begin the process. Questions may be directed to Lyell Castonguay, contact@bigink.org.