Gr7 Printing-Over and Over

Week 1: Introduction

 What is printing used for? (brainstorm)

Students investigate "What is positive and negative space?"

Can you see the difference between these two examples of patterns?

Which one shows us positive space and which one shows negative space? Explain why.

Half the class look at various World Pattern and Design. The other half view examples from the various pattern books available in class. Groups then switch.

When looking at various patterns, pay attention to interlocking patterns, positive/negative space, repetition and motifs.

Students to complete ‘Looking at Patterns’ activity on sheet.

How might we best plan on how to create a pattern? (Positive/Negative space, repetition, rhythm etc.)

You are NOT creating a picture, you are creating a design.

Homework: Read A History of Printmaking

Week 2: Looking at Patterns

Who was William Morris?  Look at his design work here and read about him and the Kelmscott Press here (read more about him here at home if you wish).

Students to complete ‘Looking at Patterns’ activity on sheet.

Homework: complete ‘Looking at Patterns’ activity on sheet.

Week 3: Planning

View previous student work. Which ones were done well and why?

Students begin planning and creating their own design/pattern.

Pay attention to interlocking patterns, positive/negative space, repetition and motifs. Remember, you are NOT creating a picture, you are creating a design!

Review the rubric in the unit pack (or online above). A level 9 or 10 on the Application Criteria entails:

There is a carefully considered and well balanced design with positive and negative space equally utilised.
The student shows an excellent proficiency in using patterns and motifs.
There is an effective ability to employ carving and inking techniques.
The print design addresses the purpose and shows a high level of creativity.

Students may continue to look at various patterns and motifs and begin creating their own. 

Review different World Patterns and Designs if needed, as well as the work of Johanna Basford for further inspiration. Her work is excellent and should appeal to several students.

Homework: continue developing draft design

Week 4: Finalising Design

Students present drafts for feedback.

Sudents create final designs on paper.

Homework: Students should complete final design on paper and transfer to softoleum.

Week 5: Carving

Students should have finished transfering design to lino block and may begin carving.

View "Relief Printmaking Process video" below.

Week 6: Carving cont'd

Students continue carving.

Week 7: Printing

Students may print using black ink on white paper.

Week 8: Printing

Students print using black ink on coloured paper as well as coloured inks on coloured paper.

Week 9: Arranging

Students cut some of their prints to create an attractive arrangement.

Week 10: Presentation & Reflection

Students present and reflect on their work.

In paragraph form, please include the following information as well as key vocabulary used in class.
1. Describe the design of your print.
2. Describe how you created your design and what shapes, patterns or inspirations were used.
3. Describe the difficulties you had in this project.
4. What do you think you have learned, or improved on?
5. If you had to repeat this project, what would you improve on, do differently and why?

To achieve a 7/8 on the rubric, it states:

Student work from 2010 via Flickr