This two-day workshop explores two essential intaglio techniques — hardground line etching and aquatint — using safer, greener materials. We'll begin by preparing copper plates and coating them with Baldwin's BIG ground, a non-toxic alternative to traditional hardgrounds that produces the same wonderfully crisp etched line. Students will draw into the ground, etch their plates, and pull a first proof on the press.

On day two, we'll return to our plates and apply an acrylic aquatint spray to build tone, texture, and depth. We'll be using acrylic spray in place of traditional rosin aquatint — a safer, healthier approach that also opens up exciting possibilities for creating gradients. Through step etching, students will learn to develop a rich range of values on a single plate, from delicate grays to velvety darks.

By the end of the weekend, participants will leave with at least one proof of their plate and a solid foundation in these versatile processes. This workshop is suitable for beginners, though a foundation in etching will be helpful.