CMYK Screenprinting

CMYK prints are a quick way to reproduce color images using halftone dots: think of the comics page of the newspaper or vintage magazines. In this workshop, you’ll be able to make prints of your own photograph and explore ways to alter the layers as you print to make unique versions!

We will start by preparing our color photograph for printing by dividing it into its cyan, magenta, yellow, and black layers and setting the halftones. We’ll print these digital stencils onto transparency and expose the images onto our screens (two 23”x31” screens are included in your materials fee). We’ll also learn about pin-and-tab registration as we prepare our paper for precision printing.

We’ll start with printing the image in the cyan, magenta, yellow, and black layers to create a direct facsimile of the original photograph. We will then experiment with altering the layer order, masking areas to create monotypes, and seeing how adjusting the ink colors changes the overall look of the print.

Level: Intermediate—Introduction to Screenprinting on Paper or Fabric, or similar experience (6 hours), is required.

Registration closes November 14, 2025. Material fees are included with your registration to cover the supplies provided in class. Students may/will need to gather/purchase additional materials for class (see the materials list below). This list will also be provided with the registration confirmation email.

Sample images by Beth Hansen