Print Studio Open Access

To book a session or to find out more information, please email sue@suejarman.co.uk.

Printmaking Open Access

Welcome to The Forge ‘Open Access’ area. Our facilities include a large traditional intaglio press suitable for printing drypoint, collagraph, photopolymer and monoprint plates. We do not offer acid etching facilities at The Forge, but you are welcome to bring and print from your own pre-prepared and etched plates.

There is also an Albion press for linocut and woodblock printing, and a UV light box for producing solar and photopolymer plates.

The space is bright and spacious, with plenty of workbench area, paper damping facilities, a large drying rack, and some communal tools like inking rollers. Consumables such as ink and paper are not provided (unless part of a course), though black ink and paper offcuts are usually available for proofing.

Open Access Sessions

Previous print experience is required to book an open access session. First-time users must book a Supervised Session, which includes technical support and a health & safety induction.

If you’ve used open access at The Forge before, or have worked in another studio but haven’t visited us for some time, you may need to book a short induction in addition to your open access session.

All sessions are supported by a Forge Print Member. If you need more in-depth help with techniques or processes, we recommend booking a Supervised Session or asking about one-to-one tuition.

Session Costs:

Open Access Day Session (10am – 4.00pm): £30
Open Access Half Day (10am – 1pm or 1pm – 4pm): £20
Induction refresh with Health & Safety: one-off £15 (plus session fee)
Supervised Session (includes induction if needed): £50

You’ll also be asked to complete an Open Access Questionnaire, which we’ll send when you get in touch. To book a session please email sue@suejarman.co.uk

Tuition and Courses:

One-to-one Tuition – Sessions can be arranged to learn or refresh techniques; please ask for pricing
Courses – A new programme is coming soon

Open Access Calendar

Available sessions can be viewed on our calendar.

Workshops

Print sessions will take place at the DA Forge studios.

Print Membership

Join a diverse network of like-minded people.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Your first session must include an induction where you will be shown how to use the studio and equipment and made aware of all building safety procedures. Once signed off for health and safety induction you can book a regular open access session.

The print room has plenty of working space and is well ventilated. Please do not attend the studio if you are feeling unwell. While face coverings are no longer mandatory, we ask that you bring one in case needed during demonstrations or when sharing close space with others.

Please continue to:

Wash your hands regularly
Be considerate of others in the studio

Printmaking Facilities

Large etching press

AO size – One of the largest flatbed etching presses in the country (W90cm x L220cm) suitable for a wide range of print making techniques including relief, monoprinting and intaglio. It has been in the Trust’s possession since 1957.

Albion Press

A2 size – Suitable for Relief Processes e.g.; Lino and Woodcut.

Rollers

Rubber rollers, plastic plates (for mono print)

Drying rack

A1 size

Store room

Lockable store room for storing hazardous materials and plan chests with drawers available for members use.

Sink

A long sink for print washing and large water bath and blotting area for dampening paper

Workbenches

Continuous workbenches around two sides with shelving underneath,

Plates

Large glass ‘inking up’ plates