Block printing & litho

Creating repeat pattern by hand

What is block printing? Block or relief printing includes linocuts, woodblock prints and rubber stamping - pretty much any method where you carve into a material and print an impression of the carved surface, which in this case, creates a repeat pattern.

I have made the conscious decision to use the traditional block printing technique which is a sustainable practice. As a pattern and textile designer, I have chosen to use my knowledge to take a modernised approach to this ancient method by using eco-friendly, water based inks and versatile colourways. Not only does this method respect the planet and nature, but it also celebrates it as well. As every lampshade is made exactly to the order, there is limited wastage of resources. The pops of colour and pattern of the relief printing bring a unique story of creation into your home.

Some of the designs are litho printed using vibrant vegetable based inks onto FSC certified matt paper. These papers have a cleaner, smoother finish and are not as rustic as the block print patterns.

Hand-made paper - a sustainable resource

Handmade papers mimicking the effect of hemp and linen fabrics allow the lampshades to incorporate rustic, natural and crafted textures. I have carefully chosen specific papers based on their feel and considered how they work as a functional shade switched on or off. The Washi Lokta paper has a smooth finish and gives off a homely glow when the light is in use. This paper has traditionally been used for calligraphy, printmaking and bookbinding for centuries.

Nepalese Washi papers are made from the inner bark fibre of lokta and argeli which are plants that grow in the high altitude forests of the Himalayan foothills. Lokta produces a strong durable paper, perfect for printing! These fibres are also a renewable resource, keeping the lampshades sustainable.

Drawing and Gouache

All designs begin as a pencil sketch, first as a rough idea from observational drawings of natural forms such as seaweed and botanics accumulated in various different sketchbooks. These are translated onto larger pieces of tracing paper until an interesting repeat pattern is placed together and the character of the design shines through.

Inspired by the continuous repetition of tiles, geometric shapes are played with on paper like children’s building blocks, mapping out the rhythm of the repeat.

Colour is then applied to dictate the mood, initially with gouache paint before using printing dyes and inks.