Skip to main content
Etching plate with image of two people sitting next to each other

Introduction to Etching

Duration: Two-week evening class
Dates: Thu 21 Aug 18:00 - Thu 28 Aug 2025 20:30
Location: Print Studio

Learn the basics of etching over two evenings.

Explore a variety of processes and leave with a small edition of prints. This class is suitable for people who want try out the basic etching process using small plates. 

You will learn how to prepare a metal plate for etching by filing and polishing, then applying a wax hard ground to the surface for drawing onto. A copper sulphate solution is used to etch the designs on the plate. 

You will spend time learning how to prepare the paper and ink up the plate to produce a small edition of prints using different colours of ink and Chine Colle.

Very interesting and informative.

Great workshop! Learned a lot and had a good time.

Print Studio Terms & Conditions

Please ensure you've read the Print Studio Terms & Conditions before you book.
Download
285 KB (PDF)

Need to know

  • What to bring

All materials will be provided but please bring along sketchbooks, drawings or any images that you would like to use as reference/inspiration. If you’re not confident about drawing, then you can trace from a photograph. We can scan, photocopy or print out images for you.

  • What to wear

We'll provide aprons and gloves but recommend wearing old cloths as printmaking can be messy. Please note that open-toed footwear and sandals are not allowed in our Print Studio.

 

  • Food & drinks

A sealed water flask or drinking vessel is permitted but other food and drinks are not allowed in the studio.

Meet your tutor

Man stands smiling beside a worl of art

Bruce Shaw

Bruce graduated in 2009 from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art Dundee with a BA/Hons in Fine Art. He now works as a self employed artist from Wasps Studios in Dundee, focusing his practice on printmaking and drawing. He also facilitates workshops within the community.
Website

In partnership with Freelands Foundation

Freelands Foundation Logo