Mokuhanga: Japanese Woodblock Printing Workshop

Step into the world of mokuhanga, the centuries-old Japanese woodblock printing technique that produced iconic works like Hokusai's "Great Wave." Over four Wednesday evenings, you'll master this meditative, water-based printing method that creates delicate color gradations and beautiful atmospheric effects impossible to achieve with Western printmaking.

Unlike oil-based relief printing, mokuhanga uses water-based pigments and a hand-held tool called a baren to transfer your carved image to paper. The result is luminous prints with subtle color transitions and a distinctive soft quality. This is printmaking as contemplative practice—patient, precise, and deeply rewarding.

Workshop Schedule: Four consecutive Wednesday evenings, 6:00-8:00 PM

March 18: Introduction to mokuhanga history and materials
Design your image and transfer it to the woodblock. Begin carving your key block.

March 25: Carving techniques and tool maintenance
Complete carving and prepare your block for printing. Learn sharpening and care of carving tools.

April 1: Water-based printing fundamentals
Mix ink, prepare paper, and create your first prints using the baren. Discover how moisture, pressure, and ink concentration affect results.

April 8: Color printing and editioning
Add additional colors using registration techniques. Print your final edition and explore advanced color blending methods.

What You'll Learn:

• Carving tools and their specific uses
• Water-based ink preparation and mixing
• Baren printing technique for even, controlled impressions
• Registration methods for multi-color prints
• Paper preparation including sizing and dampening
• The philosophy and aesthetics of mokuhanga tradition

What You'll Make: One carved woodblock and an edition of prints (minimum 5-8 finished prints). Your block remains yours for future printing.

What's Included: Woodblock, carving tools (shared during class), water-based inks, baren, washi paper, and instruction across four sessions. Tool sharpening demonstration and maintenance guidance included.

Perfect For: Printmakers wanting to explore water-based techniques, artists drawn to Japanese aesthetics, anyone seeking a meditative creative practice, relief printers ready to try something new, or makers fascinated by traditional craft methods.

Important: Registration includes all four sessions. Consistent attendance is essential as each week builds on previous skills. Class size limited to 4 participants for intensive, personalized instruction.

Wear clothes that can get inky. Closed-toe shoes required.

If you would like your own set of carving tools, we suggest these: https://www.jacksonsart.com/en-us/japanese-woodcarving-tool-set-of-5