Experimental screen printing for textiles

The focus of this course is on experimental approaches to fabric screen printing. Develop a repertoire of ‘collage’ and ‘painterly’ effects through mono printing used in combination with open screens and stencils. Explore methods of creating marks and textures directly through the screen using a variety of approaches. Techniques of painting directly onto the screen with dyes and then printing this through, will give watercolour effects (a process called Polychromatic printing). Textural effects can also be achieved (through a process someitmes called Deconstructed printing) These more 'one off' processes are methods by which the image gradually breaks down creating unique effects of colour and texture lending themselves wonderfully to mark making and hand painted qualities. Working with both pigment and Procion dye systems, the course introduces both systems together with possibilities of adding into your prints through techniques such as foiling. Create your own fabrics as samples, or for use in artwork, or for making small interior or fashion items.

The course can be taken independently or can be used to build on and extend skills from VX336 Introduction to rpinted textiles, progressing in term 3 to: VX338 Developing photo screens and special effects for textiles where you will make a photo screen together with learning specialist techniques using different binders.