Printmaking at Montsalvat

A Beginners guide into the art of Dry point and Collagraph printing with Jessie Pittard.

Duration: 8 Week Term Class Sessions

Day: Tuesdays 6:45pm - 8:45pm starting April 21st

Length: 2 hours per week

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Maximum Participants: 8

Location: Montsalvat – Print Studio / White Cottage Studio

Mode: In-person, studio-based

Age Suitability: 15+ years

Course Overview

This course shows you how you can transform household items into equipment and materials allowing for low toxic methods of printing and the creation of small-scale artworks. Using a variety of materials, like tape, board, tetra packs, fabric, sandpaper, glue and embossing you will learn how to build up depth of an image.

During the term you will be guided through the practical steps of designing, carving, inking and printing your art. The weeks will be broken up between structured group work and free play where you will be encouraged to experiment and find your own unique style. 

No prior knowledge or experience in printmaking is required for this course. Just an enthusiasm to explore, create, share ideas and get a little messy.

Week 1: Intro into printmaking /terminology techniques and materials we will be using. As a group we will build a series of test plates from a variety of materials. 

Week 2: Intro into the art of inking up and printing. 

This week we will focus are learning how to properly ink up a plate and print test images. As a group we will look at the different materials we have used and the different effects they create. 

Week3: Start working on your own designs and building up your plates.

All students will begin designing and carving their own work.

Week 4: Reflections, test printing your own work, assessing images and rework areas.

First test prints of own work, assess designs, build on and depth and printing techniques. Learn how to rip paper.

Week 5: Look at printing multiples, variable editions and mono prints.

All students will try and print a mini edition or a varied edition, learn how to create registration plates.

Week 6: Free play, plate design and printing

Continue with personal portfolios

Week 7: Free play, plate design and printing

Continue with personal portfolios.

Week 8: Final printing sessions, signing, cropping of prints, group critique and reflections.

Teaching Approach

Jessie’s teaching style combines:

• Demonstration-led instruction

• One-on-one mentoring

• Guided experimentation

• Group discussion and critique

• Strong emphasis on technical confidence and creative independence

Students are encouraged to balance discipline with creative risk-taking.

Materials Provided

• Alternative printing press 

• Shared tools and safety equipment

• Basic non toxic inks 

• Standard consumables

Students to Bring

• Sketchbook and drawing materials

• Apron or old clothing

• Optional specialty papers

• Personal imagery references

A detailed materials list will be provided prior to commencement.

Who Should Enrol

This course is ideal for:

• Beginners interested in discovering printmaking

• Artists from ceramics, drawing, or painting backgrounds

• Emerging practitioners building portfolios

• Returning students seeking technical refinement

No prior intaglio experience is required.

Course Outcomes

Participants will complete:

• 2–3 intaglio plates

• A small editioned print series

• A portfolio-ready body of work

• Practical knowledge of professional print studio practice

Future Pathways

Graduates may progress into:

• Advanced printmaking studios

• Open-access print sessions

• Exhibition opportunities at Montsalvat

• Cross-disciplinary programs with ceramics and drawing

TERMS & CONDITIONS — PRINTING CLASSES - Montsalvat Arts Education

These Terms and Conditions apply specifically to all printmaking programs conducted by Montsalvat Arts Education, including term classes, workshops, and short courses.

Bookings & Payments

• Full payment is required at the time of booking to secure your place.

• All bookings must be made through our official booking portal: www.

• Payments are accepted exclusively through this platform.

• Places are limited and cannot be held without payment.

Access to Studios & Grounds

• Clay Talk coordinates art programs across Montsalvat’s grounds. For safety and security, access is restricted to enrolled participants only.

• Upon booking, you will receive an Information Kit outlining studio access and arrival procedures.

• Please follow all instructions carefully to ensure safe and smooth participation.

Refunds, Absences & Transfers

• We do not offer refunds for change of mind after booking.

• Transfers may be requested (subject to availability and approval).

• Please ensure you can attend scheduled dates before enrolling.

Refund Requests (Before Program Commencement)

If your circumstances change prior to commencement, refund requests may be considered at our discretion and will incur a 4% administration fee.

Missed Classes

• Requests for alternative arrangements must be made within five (5) working days of a missed session via: 📧 claytalk@montsalvat.com.au

• Retrospective requests will not be accepted.

• Make-up sessions are not guaranteed.

Cancellation by Montsalvat Arts Education

Clay Talk reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a class due to unforeseen circumstances (including insufficient enrolments or tutor illness). In such cases, participants will be notified and offered either:

• a transfer to another session, or

• a pro-rata refund.

Illness & Medical Absence

If you cannot attend due to illness:

• Please notify us as soon as possible via email.

• Refunds cannot be issued; however, a transfer or credit may be offered at our discretion.

Materials

• Some classes include basic materials; others require students to bring their own supplies.

• Please check your course listing for specific requirements.

• Clay Talk is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal art materials.

Conduct & Participation

To maintain a positive studio environment:

• Participants must follow tutor instructions and studio guidelines.

• Respect for fellow students, staff, and facilities is expected at all times.

• Montsalvat Arts Education reserves the right to refuse participation or remove any attendee whose behaviour is disruptive or unsafe. No refund will be issued in such cases.

Artwork & Storage

• Printed works should be taken home at the end of each session unless otherwise advised.

• Limited storage will be supplied for students prints.

• Any artworks left behind after term class finishes must be collected within two (2) weeks.

• Uncollected work may be disposed of or donated after this period.

Programme Changes

Program content, tutors, schedules, and studio locations are subject to change without notice where necessary.

Gift Vouchers

• Available exclusively via: www.

• Minimum value: $20

• Valid for three (3) years from purchase

• Redeemable only for Montsalvat Art Education programs

• Non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.

Risk & Liability

Participation in art classes involves the use of paints, water, and studio equipment. By enrolling, participants acknowledge:

• they are responsible for their personal safety and belongings

• they will follow all safety instructions

• Montsalvat is not liable for accidental injury or personal property damage except where required by law.

Contact

For all enquiries regarding bookings, attendance, or policies: claytalk@montsalvat.com.au