Ref: SLW32972
The first aim of this course is to familiarise yourself with the special properties of translucent paper and the fibres used to make it. Kozo and Abaca are two fibres that will be used. Kozo is the inner bark of the paper mulberry, used in the making of traditional Japanese washi paper. Abaca is a type of banana plant, native to the Philippines, which, when processed in a certain way, can be used very thinly while maintaining its strength. You will learn about processing these fibres on the first evening of the course. Various processes will be used to affect the final appearance of the papers, including watermarking. You will learn about the additives used to facilitate making very thin sheets.
Having learned or refined the skills needed to process the fibres and form sheets, you will then be able to work experimentally with demonstrations and guidance from the tutor. You will make two and three-dimensional forms, using structural frameworks made from other materials (wood, bamboo and metal). You will also make decorative elements within the paper (plants, textiles and other papers). You will work with both wet and dry papers, taking advantage of the papers’ special shrinking properties where appropriate, and learn to use suitable adhesives to create the more sculptural pieces. You will be encouraged to consider the interplay between paper and light, both natural and artificial, in the course of your experimentation.
By the end of the course, you should feel confident in working with challenging kozo and abaca fibres, using the sheets made to experiment with, and go home with a selection of pieces that reflect your personal style.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Lucy Baxandall is a papermaker and book artist based at Tidekettle Paper in Berwick-upon-Tweed. She has worked as a financial journalist, jewellery designer/maker, translator and teacher of French, German and art in the UK and the USA.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
