Workshop: Introduction to Etching

DATE :

Arts opportunity Visual arts & new media Calgary Classes & Workshops

DEADLINE: November 18, 2025 - 4:40 pm

Instructor: Alison Frank

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, November 18, 20, 25, 27, and December 2, 2025

Location: A/P Studio, #460 42 Ave SE

Cost: $365.00

Ever wonder how those beautifully illustrated old books were made? With all those fancy lines and cross hatching? Picasso, Degas, Rembrandt and Francisco de Goya have all made famous works just with basic copper etching techniques!

This course will cover the fundamentals of etching, including drypoint, hardground and aquatint ground techniques. Participants will learn how to use a traditional 15th century style printing press, to create their works.

No experience required!

What you’ll learn: ​​​​
  • Brief history and relevance
  • Copper plate preparation, cutting, bevelling, sanding, removing scratches
  • Drypoint Technique
  • Copper plate inking, registration, printing and press use
  • Hardground Etching Technique
  • Intro to Aquatint
About the instructor:

Alison has over a decade of experience in archival custom picture framing. She holds a BFA from the University of Regina and an MFA in Printmaking from Louisiana State University. Originally from the South Saskatchewan prairies, she currently lives in Calgary.  She is involved in the art community, exhibiting her work, coordinating community exhibitions and events, teaching and volunteering. Her work has been exhibited in Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia.

Website: https://www.alisonfrank.ca

Instagram: @snowbunnymermaid

Workshop Fee

$365.00* prices not subject to GST

*Access to using the A/P studio equipment, including as a workshop participant, requires an A/P membership. Annual memberships are $30 and $10 for current students and current recipients of AISH. Membership fees can be applied directly to your workshop registration.

This workshop includes all project supplies, students are recommended to:
  • Bring sketches/ideas designed to 4×6 size, try to bring 3 include both a line drawing/image and shaded value drawing/image if possible.
  • Arrive no more than 10 minutes before class.
  • Park in the stalls located in front of A/P or use free street parking.
  • Bring a snack and water bottle.
  • Bring a notebook/sketchbook and pen.
  • Bring reading glasses if you need them for fine work.
  • Wear suitable clothing for working with ink and/or a work apron.
  • Wear close toed shoes and avoid overly loose long sleeves.
  • Tie back long hair when operating machinery.
  • Personal PPE (goggles if uncomfortable sharing Studio PPE)
Additional Notes:
  • Class limited to 5 Participants
  • Adults 18+ Years Old

For more information and to register, visit our website HERE