Printmaking Introduction

Overview

Age Group: Year 1 (5-6 years)
Duration: 60 minutes
Class Size: 30 students
Unit: Watercolour Wonders: Klee Inspired (Lesson 5 of 6)
Lesson Title: Introduction to Printmaking Techniques

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National Curriculum Links (Art and Design, Key Stage 1)

• Developing Ideas: Use a variety of drawing tools and techniques (Drawing - KS1)
• Making Patterns: Experiment with printing using a variety of materials (Printing - KS1)
• Knowledge and Understanding: Describe the work of notable artists, craft makers and designers (Art and Design - KS1)
• Evaluating: Talk about own work and the work of others, identifying what they like and what they want to improve

Relevant attainment targets:

• Pupils should be taught to use a range of materials creatively to design and make products.
• Pupils should be taught to use drawing, painting and sculpture to develop and share their ideas, experiences and imagination.
• Pupils should be taught to explore and respond to the work of artists, craftspeople and designers.

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Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson:

1. Pupils will understand and demonstrate simple foam printmaking techniques.
2. Pupils will create their own prints inspired by their prior watercolour landscapes, birds, or spiral designs.
3. Pupils will use simple carving tools safely to create basic patterns on foam sheets.
4. Pupils will assess and explain their creative choices in a group discussion.

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Resources Required

• Soft foam sheets (approx. A5 size) - 1 per pupil
• Plastic or wooden stylus tools for carving (safe and blunt)
• Water-based printing inks in small trays (primary colours plus black)
• Roller (brayer) for ink spreading
• Paper for printing (A4 white paper)
• Samples of watercolour paintings created in earlier lessons
• Visual aids: photos/boards of Klee’s work focusing on shapes, spirals, birds, and landscapes
• Cleaning materials (wet wipes, paper towels)
• Aprons or old shirts to protect clothing

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Lesson Structure

1. Starter Activity (10 minutes)

• Recap: Show students their watercolour paintings from previous lessons, gently encouraging them to recall their inspirations (Klee’s landscapes, birds, spirals).
• Introduce: Show examples of simple printmaking using foam sheets. Explain that they will become printmakers today!
• Demonstrate:
  • How to carve simple shapes into the foam using the stylus (no deep cuts, only surface indentations).
  • Safe handling of the tools.
  • How to roll the ink on the foam surface before printing.
  • Pressing the paper on the foam to make a print.

2. Main Activity (35 minutes)

• Task: Each pupil will create a foam printing block inspired by their earlier artwork (choosing from landscapes, birds, or spirals).
• Step 1: Pupils lightly draw their design on the foam sheet with a pencil (teacher assistance available).
• Step 2: Pupils carve simple indentations on their foam shapes with the stylus.
• Step 3: Teacher models safe use of the roller to paint ink evenly on the foam block.
• Step 4: Pupils carefully press paper on the inked foam to create their prints.
• Step 5: Repeat printing up to 2 times per block to observe different effects.
• Support: Circulate to assist with tool use and to prompt creativity (e.g., “Can you add a bird next to your tree?”).
• Encourage: Experimentation with colour mixing by rolling two colours lightly on the foam before printing.

3. Plenary and Assessment (15 minutes)

• Show and Tell: Pupils place prints on display and share with the class what their print depicts and how it relates to their earlier artwork.
• Reflect: Ask children what they liked about the process and what was tricky.
• Teacher Assessment Notes:
  • Ability to safely handle the tools.
  • Creativity and connection to prior work.
  • Understanding and application of printing technique basics.
  • Participation in discussion about work.

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Differentiation

• Support:
  • Provide pre-drawn outlines for pupils struggling to design their prints.
  • One-to-one adult support for tool handling if needed.
• Challenge:
  • Encourage some pupils to add two or more layers of printing with different colours.
  • Introduce simple negative space ideas (carving away parts they want to remain uninked).

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Cross-Curricular Opportunities

• Literacy: Pupils describe their prints orally fostering ready speaking and listening skills.
• Maths: Counting how many prints they can make; exploring patterns and shapes.
• Personal, Social and Emotional Development: Working collaboratively and proudly sharing creations enhances confidence and communication.

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Safety Considerations

• Use blunt stylus tools designed for young children. Ensure supervision during carving.
• Non-toxic, water-based inks only. Provide aprons and keep wet wipes handy.
• Clear instructions on tool use and hygiene after the session.

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Notes for Teachers

• Plan a diverse display area to exhibit both watercolour paintings and foam prints together at the end of the unit.
• Consider photographing prints for a digital class portfolio or slideshow.
• Use this session to build excitement and anticipation for lesson 6, where pupils refine printmaking by combining watercolour backgrounds and printing overlays.

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This lesson combines creative expression with practical skill development, linking directly to the National Curriculum’s requirements for exploring materials and techniques, drawing inspiration from artists, and articulating their artistic journey in accessible terms for Year 1 learners.