Suminagashi: Japanese Paper Marbling in Herefordshire

Description

Learning and playing with the process of suminagashi allows your creativity to flow as you make beautiful designs, each one subtly different to the next. It’s such a meditative process, you may well be surprised at how immersed you become in the activity as you coax patterns from ink floating on water. No previous experience is required, curiosity is encouraged! The art of suminagashi, the Japanese form of paper marbling, is both compelling and intriguing. It dates back to the Heian period of Japan (794-1185) and is the precursor of all other marbling techniques. The craft of paper marbling is listed by Heritage Crafts on its endangered list. The workshop will give you an understanding of the materials, tools and process with plenty of practice on both small and large troughs. Take home many sheets of paper covered in suminagashi for use in bookbinding and other paper arts. Feedback from one of last year's students: 'I found you an exemplary tutor. You made time for each student and I could hear you making positive comments throughout the day. You demonstrated at a good pace so that we could keep up with what you were doing and how we should be aware of what might possibly go wrong. You were gentle, patient and complementary about our work.'

What's included in the price?

The day starts at 10 a.m. with coffee and a look at the history of suminagashi and what you need to get started. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities to unleash your creativity and to ask questions! The aim is to help you acquire the necessary skills to create your own designs at home. Included in the cost are all materials and refreshments (beverages and cake).

Cancellation policy

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

Maker

Sarah Amatt

with Craft Courses since 2024

Message the tutor

Sarah is a suminagashi artist and maker. A preference for simple, elegant, pared-back images and a love of paper and ink has inspired her work with Japanese marbling. Using various washi and western papers, she crafts both traditional and contemporary designs some of which become framed prints, hand bound books or lampshades; the rest make their way to various artisans and letterpress printers. She also enjoys sharing her skills with others at her workshops.