Botanical Contact Printing Workshop w/Lotta Helleberg

We will learn natural printing techniques using locally foraged or found plant materials such as leaves, flowers, and seeds.
The class will provide basic knowledge of botanical contact printing (also called eco-printing) on paper and textiles, focusing on materials that can be incorporated into bookmaking and book art.

• You will learn how to achieve the best possible print outcome, including how to prepare the materials, how and when to use mordants, and how to select the most appropriate plants for the process.
• We will also learn how to convert printed fabrics into book cloth. Samples, notes, and recipes will be assembled into a simple hand-bound book during the class.

Workshop Details: Botanical Contact Printing Workshop

• Saturday & Sunday, June 22 & 23, 2024
• 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (please bring your lunch)
• Instructor: Lotta Helleberg
• Location: Artist/Instructor’s studio in downtown Charlottesville
• Location Access Note: Participants will need to be able to navigate stairs. The artist's indoor studio is on the second floor, and the outdoor dye studio is on the ground level
• Fee for Two Day Workshop: $265 VCB Members / $295 Non-Members
• *UVa Education Benefit Eligible, non-degree certification class #062224 (must
• Registration closes on June 14, 2024
• Class Size: Limited to eight students
• Skill level: No previous bookmaking, or natural dye experience required.
• Course fees must be paid to complete your registration.
• For additional course information contact: Lotta Helleberg – [email protected]
• For information about the Center and its programs contact [email protected]

Additional Workshop Notes

• The workshop fee includes the cost of all materials, except fabric and papers to be used beyond print samples and the class book project.
• The course-provided materials include fabric and paper for book and sample prints, interfacing, wheat paste, lining paper, and bookbinding thread.
• Basic tools such as boards, rods, and clamps will be available for in-class use.

• It is the Virginia Center for the Book’s expectation that all program participants are vaccinated.
• Evolving CDC and UVA COVID guidelines may require that participants be masked if working close to others. (bring your masks)
• Should public health guidelines change, and new norms be applicable, we reserve the right to revisit the expectations in the interest of participant health and safety.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Virginia Center for the Book, Jefferson School City Center, Charlottesville, United States