Mokuhanga Bootcamp: Intro to Japanese Woodblock Printing

Instructor: Nichol Markowitz

Date: 8/1/26 & 8/8/26

Time: 10AM - 2PM

Max class size: 8

Class fee: $300

Materials fee: $30

Learn the basics of Mokuhanga (Japanese water-based woodblock printing) in this short form workshop. Over the course of two sessions, students will learn the basics of this traditional, non-toxic process and complete a 2-4 color woodblock print of their own design. The first session will focus on transferring the image to the block, carving Shina plywood with Japanese hand tools, and the kento registration system. The second session will concentrate on inking the blocks with gouache and traditional brushes, and printing the block by hand with a Japanese baren. This process does not require the use of a press or other specialized machinery, making it an ideal form of printmaking for those who have limited access to studio space and printmaking facilities. No experience necessary, open to all skill levels.

Materials fee ($30 included in workshop fee) includes: 

• one, double sided 6” x 8” block of ⅜” Shina plywood

• Japanese Kizuke paper for printing

• newsprint, nori, and other expendables 

• Akua pigment paste for printing

• use of studio equipment: barens*, set of 5 Power Grip carving tools*, Maru bake and hanga bake printing brushes*

(*indicates materials that are loaned to students for the duration of the workshop)