Nature Printing on Paper and Fabric
Tuesday, June 24 from 6-8:30pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 18 and older
Teaching artist: Susann Ely
Class fee: $95
Explore the art of leaf printing on paper and fabric! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to create beautiful botanical prints on paper and fabric using fresh leaves. We’ll begin with an introduction to the materials—paints, leaves, and their unique textures—while learning fundamental printing techniques. You’ll discover which leaves and plants yield the best results and experiment with creating beautiful nature prints. During the first half of the class, you'll craft nature-inspired notecards and prints perfect for gifts, art journaling, or collage. In the second half, we’ll shift our focus to fabric printing, building skills that will culminate in nature printing your own T-shirt.
Nature printing is a fun, accessible art form. No painting experience necessary!
All printing materials will be provided for the class, including instructions on curing your shirt once it’s dry.
By the end of class, you’ll take home:
Nature-printed cards
Nature prints on paper for collaging or framings
One printed bandana
Unique, hand-printed T-shirt
Required Supplies:
An apron or wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting ink on
One or two white or very light-colored T-shirts (100% cotton, smooth texture, pre-washed). If you’d prefer to print a fabric tote bag instead of a T-shirt, you are welcome to bring your own, white/light-colored bag instead.
Fresh, non-toxic leaves with prominent veins and interesting shapes for the best prints. Please bring these in a zip-top bag. Flat leaves work best. Susann will also provide leaves as well.
Supplies Included:
Textile paint
Leaves for printing
Blank cards
Printmaking paper
Tweezers
Cotton bandanas
Paint rollers
REGISTER
Bio:
Susann Ely is a nature printer specializing in direct impressions of fish (gyotaku) and plants. She serves as a board member of the Nature Printing Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the art and history of nature printing. Originally from the Philippines, Susann earned a BA in Fine Arts from the University of the Philippines. In 2022, she showcased her prints and conducted a gyotaku demonstration during Madison’s Gallery Night. As an active member of the Nature Printing Society, she co-led the planning of national conferences for nature printers, bringing together over 70 participants in North Carolina (2023), and Oregon (2024) to explore nature printing techniques. Susann’s work is driven by a desire to slow down, observe, and appreciate nature’s intricacies. Over the past four years, she has shared her passion for nature printing with students, inspiring others to engage with this unique art form.
Social: @susannelyart