Introduction to Screen Printing with Dave Holt

Embark on a creative journey as Dave Holt, a 20-year veteran in professional screen printing, leads you through an immersive 5-week Short Course. For beginners or experienced artists wanting to brush up or learn new skills, this workshop caters to all skill levels.

Dave Holt is an experienced and knowledgeable screen printer. From self-taught beginnings to heading his own successful and internationally recognisable screen printing business Custom Merch, Dave’s expertise covers every aspect of the craft.

His breadth of screen printing knowledge and hands-on approach, means he can work with all levels of printers, from the complete beginners through to those with print qualifications, and having learnt the many pitfalls along the way, he’s passionate about sharing his expertise of how to make great screen prints.

When he’s not bent over a screen, mixing inks or creating artwork, he’s happiest in or on the water, either sea swimming or gig rowing.

Session One: Overview and Hands-on Introduction (Wednesday, 18th Sept, 6.30pm – 8.30pm)

– Brief introduction to screen printing including examples of screen printed products.

– Overview of the course: 1) Setting up print ready artwork; 2) Making screens: coating and drying, exposing, washing, reclaiming; 3)Printing techniques; 4)Mixing inks 5) Curing inks 5) Project planning, e.g. a t-shirt or tote bag design which will be worked on throughout the course.

– Equipment demonstration.

– Students practice

Session Two: Design to Print with Pre-made Screens (Wednesday, 25th September, 6.30pm – 8.30pm)

Using a variety of pre-made screens with designs on and matching acetates you will pick a design and prepare the screen for printing by taping up and filling any holes. You will learn how to set the acetate up in the correct position on the platen and then load the screen into the carousel. Dave will demonstrate flooding and ink pulling techniques. You will be encouraged to mix your own ink up and you will apply them to the screen in preparation for some test prints which next can be cured using a heat press.

Session Three: Mastering Screen Making (Wednesday 2nd October, 6.30pm – 8.30pm)

You will practice coating screens using emulsion, drying them and exposing them. Next you will learn how to wash screens to reveal applied designs. In this session you will be able to print your designs onto acetates in preparation for session four.

Session Four: Prepping Your Project (Wednesday 9th October, 6.30pm – 8.30pm)

You will practice using pre-dried and coated screens to expose and wash your acetate designs onto a screen. You will be shown how to set up a carousel using acetate and perform some test prints. Also, there will be an opportunity for you to purchase product blanks in case you need them for the last session.

Session Five: Bring Your Designs to Life (Wednesday, 16th October, 6.30pm – 8.30pm)

Through this session you will have the opportunity to set up and print your designs onto the products of your choice. You will experiment with mixing your own inks and then print and cure your chosen products practicing all the skills you have obtained in the previous four sessions. Also, this session will be a chance for you to ask Dave any questions in relation to the screen-printing.

Course Details:

🗓️ Dates & Time:

Session One: Wednesday 18th September, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Session Two: Wednesday 25th September, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Session Three: Wednesday 2nd October, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Session Four: Wednesday 9th October, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Session Five: Wednesday 16th October, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

💰 Cost: £150.00 (plus booking fee) for 5 sessions

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn from a screen printing pro.

Secure your spot now for an unforgettable 5-week adventure at RAMP (Real Art Make Print) at Ocean Studios, Royal William Yard.

For more information about our workshops, creative activities, studios, and facilities, be sure to visit the RAMP (Real Art Make Print) website. Discover the exciting opportunities we offer and get involved in our vibrant community. Check out all the details at RAMP’s What’s On page. 

If you are unable to attend any workshops or activities, please inform us as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to others who may be interested. Additionally, please review our ticket refund policy, as we will be adhering to it strictly. 

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!