Introduction to Marbled Paper w/Brittani Locke

Try your hand at the classic technique of marbled paper! Students will learn how to suspend paint on a gel bath to create various marbled patterns with tools and combs. You will capture your designs by dipping paper into the colorful bath to make dozens of decorative papers that can be used for bookbinding and paper projects. The history of marbled paper and the practice of historic patterns using traditional combs and brushes will be discussed.

The art of marbling offers many refined styles that have developed over time in Japan, China, Turkey, and along the Silk Road. It is also known as Ebru, Abri, and Suminagashi. Brittani enjoys applying unique hand-marbled designs on fabric, paper, and canvas. Each piece receives an unrepeatable marbled pattern. The play between color and pattern offers an endless resource of inspiration.

About the Instructor:

Brittani Locke is a surface designer who uses marbling as a decorative technique. She enjoys experimenting with color and pattern by manipulating fluid paint with intricate combs. For 15 years, she has been studying traditional methods passed down from world masters who utilize century-old techniques.

• Date/Time Thursday, Saturday & Sunday, May 24–25, 2025 (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily)
• Instructor: Brittani Locke
• Class Size: Max 8 students.
• Skill level: No previous marbling experience is required. (experienced marblers will still find the class enjoyable)
• Location: Virginia Center for the Book (map: Jefferson School City Center)
• Fee: $265 VCB Members / $290 Non-Members (registration fee includes $75 for materials)
• Class may be , non-degree certification class #052425 (must use non-member price)
• Course fees must be paid to complete your registration.
• Registration closes on May 16, 2025
• All materials are provided, along with tools available for in-class use.
• For information about this workshop, the Center, and its programs, contact [email protected]
• Center Webpage: Workshop Details: Marbled Paper w/Brittani Locke

Our COVID Vaccination and Masking Policy for this Workshop:

• The Virginia Center for the Book expects that all program participants are vaccinated.
• 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

Program Support

The Josef and Robert Cornell Memorial Foundation partially funds this program and many of the Center's artist talks and workshops.
Our Cornell support also provides needs-based assistance with registration fees for a limited number of participants
Please get in touch with [email protected] to apply.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

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