Relief and Reduction for Beginners to Intermediate
September 15, 2026 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Tuesdays, September 15 - November 17, 2026 (10 sessions)
There will be no instructed class on 10/13 & 10/20. Students will have open studio access during this time.
This 8‑week class introduces students to the fundamentals of relief and reduction printmaking. It’s open to all levels and is especially well‑suited for beginners, as well as for more experienced printmakers interested in expanding their skills or combining techniques.
What will you learn? You’ll gain a brief grounding in printmaking history and explore the work of several modern printmakers. Technically, you’ll learn how to transfer an image onto linoleum, register paper, carve and ink a plate, and pull prints with confidence. We’ll explore color mixing, layering, and the different effects of transparent versus opaque inks. By the end of the quarter, you’ll have created your own finished prints from start to finish.
Our collaborative, supportive print studio environment encourages individual growth, experimentation, and shared learning. Open studio time is available throughout the week so you can continue developing your skills at your own pace.
If you’re curious but still have questions, feel free to reach out through Instagram (@s.e.penney) or via my website: www.sandrapenney.com..
Supply List:
I recommend you order your supplies online 2 weeks prior to start of class, as not all art stores will stock these printmaking supplies.
- You will need 2 Registration Pins for this class. A pair of Registration Pins can be purchased online at Blicks Art Supply. The correct pins are the size 1/4” x 0.120 and can be found at this link https://www.dickblick.com/items/ternes-burton-plastic-register-pins-red-14-0120-pkg-of-2/
- 3-5 sheets of white Reeves BFK paper (250 gsm or higher) in size 22” x 30”. I recommend ordering this online from McClains or Blicks, not all art supply shops stock this onsite. https://imcclains.com/ or www.dickblick.com
- (3) 8” x 10 “or 9 “x 12” linoleum unmounted battleship grey sheets, or (1) large unmounted battleship grey linoleum sheet to be cut down to project size (18” x 24” or larger). For beginning student’s, KAC will provide you with your first 5” x 7” linoleum sheet to create your first print from. Unmounted linoleum can be bought at www.blick.com , Artist & Craftsman in Seattle, and other online art suppliers.
- Sketchbook for notetaking and idea generation
- =Water-based Highlighting marker
- Sakura Pigma Micron Pen (05) - (08) Fineliner pen: can be purchased at art supply stores or on Amazon
- You will need an idea or image from which to work. (image should be the mirror-image of the original if you make a photocopy or print it out)
- Classroom has, but is nice to have your own of the following: Boxcutter or xacto knife (1); a Set of Speedball linocutters or good woodcutting tools. We’ve had good experiences with the following carving tool sets: Flexcut 5 piece Printmaking Set (SK 130): can be bought on the Flexcut website ( www.flexcut.com ) Mikisyo Power Grip Carving Tools, set of 5 ( www.amazon.com )
- Apron to protect clothing from print ink
A note on Inks
KAC supplies the print room with oil-based inks.
These inks are cleaned up using a combination of vegetable oil and Gamsol Odorless Mineral Spirits.
Some students prefer to use oil-based washable inks, which can be cleaned up using Dawn dish soap and water. If you want to do this, we recommend purchasing Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Inks in 2.5 oz or 5 oz tubes. These can be bought at www.blick.com or many other art supply stores. Important Color: Black Other Colors: Red, White, Yellow, Blue
**A $10 supply fee has been included in the tuition
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620 Market Street Kirkland, Washington 98033 (425) 822-7161