Develop your creative practice through contemporary relief printmaking, combining traditional techniques with modern artistic approaches. This course introduces methods such as lino cutting and block printing, helping you create original prints with confidence
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You will explore design, carving and inking techniques while experimenting with composition and personal style. Teaching is practical and supportive, encouraging creative exploration at your own pace. Ideal for beginners or those with some experience, this course supports personal creative development at WM College in Camden, London.
Location: Crowndale Road, Camden
Who is this course for and what will I learn?
This course is for adults aged 19+ who want to explore printmaking as a creative practice.
It is suitable if you:
- Are interested in drawing, design or handmade processes
- Want to develop new creative skills or refine existing ones
- Are returning to education and want structured guidance
- Enjoy working with materials and experimenting with ideas
This course is suitable for beginners and those with some experience. You do not need prior printmaking knowledge. Your tutor will guide you step by step through techniques and processes. If you already have some creative experience, you can develop your skills further within a supportive environment.
On this course, you will learn how to:
- Design and prepare images for relief printing
- Carve and create printing blocks using lino or similar materials
- Apply inks and print using hand or press techniques
- Experiment with colour, layering and composition
- Develop your own visual style through creative practice
- Produce a small collection of finished prints
How will I learn?
You will learn through practical, studio-based sessions at WM College in Camden, London. Lessons include demonstrations, guided exercises and individual project work. You will explore different techniques at your own pace, supported by your tutor. Class sizes are small to ensure individual feedback and a supportive learning environment.
Basic printmaking tools and equipment are available in the studio. You may need to bring or purchase some materials such as lino, inks or paper as you progress. Your tutor will advise you on suitable materials during the course, so there is no need to buy anything before the first session. A notebook or sketchbook is also useful for developing ideas.
Some materials may need to be purchased as your projects develop, such as lino blocks, specialist papers or inks. Costs are kept as low as possible, and your tutor will recommend affordable options.
All additional costs will be clearly explained during the course, and many learners choose how much to invest based on their personal projects.
Assessment and next steps
Assessment is informal and based on your practical work throughout the course. You will receive regular feedback from your tutor and take part in group discussions about your work.
Assessment focuses on your development, creativity and progress rather than formal testing. This approach helps you build confidence and refine your techniques in a supportive environment
By the end of the course, you will:
- Develop practical relief printmaking skills
- Gain confidence working with print processes
- Produce a small body of finished prints
- Build your personal creative style
There is no required work outside class. You may choose to develop ideas or sketch between sessions. Your tutor will provide guidance if you want to extend your practice independently.
After completing this course, you can progress to further printmaking or fine art courses at WM College, including more advanced or specialist workshops.
You may also apply your skills to personal creative practice, portfolio development or small-scale production work such as prints or handmade products. These skills can support creative pathways or wellbeing-focused learning.
WM College offers advice and guidance to help you find your next course and continue developing your creative practice.
Tutor Profiles
Ryan McClelland - Print Tutor.
Artist and educator based in London with 25 years of experience across contemporary art, education, and publishing. Working predominantly with print media, with projects spanning exhibitions, publications and education. Experience includes international exhibitions, curriculum development, and research-led practice focused on identity, archives, and image circulation/culture.
Experienced educator delivering creative workshops across a wide array setting, including work with Tate, Camden Art Centre, The RA Schools and Goldsmiths. My approach emphasizes experimentation, confidence-building, and critical thinking. Learners develop practical art skills, strengthen self-expression, and gain transferable skills.
Printmaking Fellowship - RA Schools
MFA in Fine Art (Printmaking) - RCA
International exhibitions, including at the Oscar Niemeyer Museum, Brazil, Palais de Tokyo, France and Lismore Castle Ireland.
Developed and delivered creative curricula and learning projects across UK schools and community and museum settings.
Ongoing research-led practice exploring spectrality, hauntology, and self-representation through publishing and Print based work