Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park

Description: Block Printing on Canvas Bag

Location: Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park

Block printing is a rich and historical craft that has stood the test of time and can be traced back to many cultures and regions. We will be learning the skill of block printing using linocut blocks resulting in your own personal print that you can use for many years to come, including using your print on a canvas bag to take home!

This program is recommended for those 10 years and older who are interested in creating their own block print. This program will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

Block printing has been around for thousands of years and originated in China with the first documented book in the 7^th century. In the United States, wood block prints were seen largely during the Great Depression. During the New Deal era the United States Government created four art projects from 1933-1943 that would fund artists to provide posters for agencies like National Parks Service and the Social Security administration. The art of block printing is creating a two-dimensional image from a carved block. Block printing can be found in art museums, textiles, the printing press, book illustrations

During this program we will create our own block print from a rubber carving block. We will first discuss the tools necessary to complete the project as well as the best methods to accomplish your artistic goal. We will then draw on our rubber carving block with pencil and finally complete the print by carving the suggested area. We will test the prints out to see if any adjustments need to be made before you use your print on your own canvas bag to take home. Your print can also be used on many other mediums!

To prepare for this program, please read the attached Essential Eligibility Criteria below.

In the event of inclement weather this program will be cancelled.

Event Document:   Essential Eligibility Criteria