Graphic Design and Print - Nottingham Trent University

Description

Join an immersive, hands-on course in the art of screen printing, bookbinding, and zine-making that combines technical skills with creative expression. You’ll dive into bold screen printing techniques, mastering how to layer colours and textures on paper and fabric for striking, multi-dimensional prints and channel these skills into creating your own zine (a small-batch, personal publication that brings together print, storytelling, collage, and typography) to tell a unique story. This course celebrates creativity, collaboration, and experimentation, creating a space where you’ll bring your ideas to life alongside other passionate learners. Whether you're new to graphic design and screen printing techniques or looking to refine your skills, this course will guide you through every stage of the process; from initial design concepts to the final, hand-bound zine and gently challenge you creatively. By the end of the course, you’ll walk away with your own collection of vibrant prints and a fully realised, custom-made zine, along with the skills and confidence to continue exploring self-expression through print and design. Immerse yourself in the world of graphic design and screen printing in this hands-on, creative course. You’ll gain valuable experience creating unique prints, learning the essentials of design, and understanding the process behind storytelling in visual formats. By the end of the course, you will have created a complete, self-designed zine and a professionally bound book showcasing your work—a tangible portfolio that reflects your personal style and newfound skills. During this course, you will: • learn how to screen print on paper and fabric using a handbench and line table • explore different techniques for transferring your designs and play with layering colours and textures to bring your ideas to life • discover the essential principles of good graphic design, typography, and layout • develop storytelling and narrative skills, discovering how to convey narratives visually • experiment with multiple printmaking techniques, exploring various ways to create and refine your work • get hands-on experience layering, understanding colour separation, and print variations • gain hands-on experience in bookbinding, covering essential techniques to produce visually stunning and professional-quality books • select materials, prepare pages, and bind them to create a unique zine. You’ll also go on the hunt for inspiration with trips to the Dizzy Ink studio and Notts Zine Library, offering you a behind-the-scenes look at professional design studios and a chance to explore zines from artists around the world. Tutor Profile: Craig Proud runs a creative workshop, design and print studio, Dizzy Ink. Being a lover of education and grassroots activism Craig has focused his personal research into Notts Zine Library, a free open and accessible resource currently based in Nottingham Contemporary. Notts Zine Library, along with Institute of Mental Health Uo, conducts research around mental health and zine culture as a form of therapy and benefits of connection. With an extensive portfolio, Craig has been involved in many projects with a cause and continues to do so. His artwork has been exhibited at Nottingham Castle, alongside V&A's collection of activist media for the exhibition: A World to Win, 2015. As well as putting on workshops for D&AD New Blood and various festivals; another highlight was being commissioned to produce a special exhibition around the UK's referendum. Through his print studio Dizzy Ink, he led QUADs major exhibition, titled, Three Months On, 2016.

What's included in the price?

This course will be delivered in person on Nottingham Trent University city campus. Your course fees cover the cost of studies and include great benefits such as the use of our modern library and free use of the IT equipment and software on the campus during your course. All your materials and equipment will be provided, but you may also want to bring with you: • any specific materials you wish to experiment with, such as speciality paper or fabric • a sketchbook or notebook for ideas and notes • any personal images or inspiration for your zine content • comfortable clothing that can withstand some ink or paint spills. On successful completion of the course you will receive a certificate of attendance, which will further enhance your CV.

Cancellation policy

Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Nottingham Trent University

with Craft Courses since 2015

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