It’s January and with the festivities behind us the new year is the perfect time for a new hobby. If you fancy being creative but don’t feel confident with drawing from scratch, why not have a go at printing?
Printing is a great way to use existing images and turn them into a design you can repeat on paper or readymade cards. This could be a fun way to create some unique thank you cards for your Christmas presents. For a great range of stamps and inks have a look online at Crafty Snippets (www.craftysnippets.co.uk) or visit them in person at their shop in Billingshurst.
If you want to try something more advanced you could create your own printing plates by trying a starter kit for lino printing which are available from Cass Art (www.cassart.co.uk).
You may also have a printing press in your kitchen – your pasta machine! – which coupled with an old orange juice cartoon can form an effective way to ‘etch’ print and is a great printing method for the more confident crafter. Have a look at this You Tube link for some inspiration: https://youtu.be/JeE5M5bYkGk
If all these ideas get you interested but you would prefer to learn from a demonstration then come along to Cranleigh Art and Crafts Society’s Gel printing demonstration on Saturday 21 January. We will be meeting at 2.30pm in the Band Room, Village Way, Cranleigh and the demonstration is free for members to attend and just £5 for non members.
Gel printing is a technique perfect for beginners or experienced crafters alike and a practical demonstration is a great way to get accustomed to the processes involved.
Whatever printing method you choose, why not have a go and awaken your creativity! It’s a brilliant way to find a fun new hobby and create gifts and cards that family and friends will treasure.
From everyone at Cranleigh Arts & Crafts Society we wish you a very Happy New Year!
