Thank you so much for considering a talk, demonstration or workshop for your group. Below, you’ll find descriptions of both options, so you can choose what works best for you. The key factors will be size of group and timings – but get in touch if you need something a little different!

 

Group Talk and Demonstration

This is a journey through how I got to be in block printing - from policing, via Long Covid to Jaipur and back again! Covering my background and professional life – as a special constable whilst a student, through to joining West Midlands Police, and promotion to Superintendent; my experiences of Long Covid, which led me ultimately to my journey to India to see the blocks being made and experiences there, and then what I do now with my blocks. Ideally a projector would be great to show photos, but not essential.

I then give a demonstration with a range of blocks, talking through the technique, how to apply paint, what effects you can achieve, how to use the paint, how to heat-set, aftercare etc. and show samples of different patterns (depending on size of group and room, might need to come closer to see.)

At the end of the session, attendees can come to the demonstration table, look at and handle the blocks, and test out printing onto a practice piece.

I can bring a small range of printing kits and printed items for sale. I can also offer a voucher for 10% off for any scheduled workshops that individual attendees book on to.

 

Indian Block Printing Workshop

This is my Introduction to Indian Block Print workshop; I give a brief introduction and my background, including my visit to India and how I got into block printing. I then show my range of blocks, including vintage elephant brought back on my trip. I share samples of different patterns and effects that you can achieve during the workshop, including a range of items to print on.

I then give a demonstration with a range of blocks, talking through the technique, how to apply paint, what effects you can achieve, how to use the paint, how to heat-set, aftercare etc.

You then get free rein to select blocks from a huge range, across many themes (floral, seaside, paisley, geometric, foliage, wildlife, fruit/veg, space and dinosaurs!) and select a colour palette of your choice from a wide range of colours.

You can then practice, both the printing technique - right amount of paint, right amount of pressure - and your choice of blocks, how they work together, what your design will look like, size and scale and which item you want to print on (tote bag, drawstring, tea towel). There's plenty of time to try different things until you are happy.

We usually need a cup of tea or coffee (and cake?!) by this point!

You then move onto your final piece, laying out your design in the colours and style of your choice, having worked this out in advance or adapt as you go! Positioning, borders and neat edges, how to make a great design. Once dry (usually virtually immediately), we heat set it so it's colour fast. If you've time left, you can try printing on greetings cards, or a mini tote bag.

I also do a range of other printing workshops (stationery, aprons, cushion cover, stencils, fonts, seasonal) which follow the same format, but might vary slightly by length/price.

Where and when

  • Have blocks - will travel! I can bring my workshops to any suitable venues. This works well for groups of friends, hen parties or birthday celebrations, as well as craft groups. I like to keep to groups of around 8 (10/12 and I’ll bring a helper) as it enables everyone to have all of the equipment and support that they need to create something lovely.
  • A group session is arranged on a date and time to suit – weekdays, weekends or evenings.
  • I have scheduled events at various local venues – please check my website for these, or follow me on Facebook and Instagram.
  • I run private workshops for up to 4 (5 if we get cosy!) at my home studio in Bidford on Avon, Warwickshire.

Prices valid for bookings until Dec 2026