Learn to make monoprint art
Get artsy with this printing workshop which explores the themes of being bold and curious.
This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.
Who is this for?
This is a workshop for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.
Why does this make a difference?
This is an arts workshop that helps people learn by using their senses to connect with their surroundings while building confidence, supporting self-expression, individuality, connection, creativity and understanding.
What happens in the video?
Step 1
Set up a space to make art – you’ll need something you can roll your ink out on, like perspex, a painting palette, an old coffee tray or anything that’s flat. You’ll also need a roller or an old kitchen sponge, ink or acrylic paint, some pencils or pen, and some paper to print onto, plus kitchen paper to keep your hands clean. You might want to wear old clothes or an apron.
Step 2
Making sure the lid is on tight, shake your ink or paint, then unscrew the lid and cover your work surface with paint using the roller or sponge.
Step 3
Place a piece of paper over the ink, then draw a picture on the back of the paper with a pen or pencil – you can draw anything you like! Shade in different areas to make them pick up more paint.
Step 4
Remove your paper and put it one side – this is your first print. Then lay a second paper down, and have a go at drawing with your fingers or your fists. Top up the ink if you need.
Step 5
If you like, try removing the paper and drawing a picture directly into the ink or make swirly marks with your sponge, then smoothing the paper over to get a different effect!
Step 6
Try it next with the tissue paper instead of the normal paper, introduce different colours, experiment and enjoy.
This activity was created by the artist Fae Kilburn.