Screenprinted Delights

 I recently got invited to do a days screen printing at the excellent Stroud Valleys Artspace and although I had intended to document things at the time to share, things took a little time to get figured out. So, after much fiddling, sampling, going away and coming back again with 'fresh eyes' I've completed a few protoypes from the remaining printed fabrics, and Im actually really chuffed with them. Considering I didnt expect to come away with any product pieces, I've now got a few to showcase and use as a starting point.
I also discovered how much I enjoy the immediacy of paper screens rather than exposed ones, which take time and precision - which isnt really how I work generally. I also love the simple nature of calico - unbleached and speckly, this one has a nice weight which I chose specifically to be able to withstand use as a cushion or a tote etc. I will definitely be trialing these out in my gallery to see how they are received.
For the next prints I suspect I will be using a similar colour pallette, inspired by 1940s and 50s advertising art. Very handy really - the ones I used here were ready mixed and available at the time, but the colours are just right. Next time I'm envisioning bright pinks and pastels paired with black and grey.
Soon I'll be able to share the finished pieces with you but for now here's a few snippets of the prints in progress...
See you next time!

1/ my repeat prints straight off my roll of white felt
2/ a close up of a  simple 2 layer screen print before going back in with black lines
3/ late night working to finish the pieces back at my own studio