Moth Tetra Pak printing workshop

What better way to remember the wing markings of moths than making prints of them?
   In this inaugural printmaking workshop in the Threshing Barn, your tutor Genny has chosen a theme that is very close to our hearts here at Bere Marsh Farm.

Expert volunteers have been monitoring moths here for several years using battery-operated moth boxes purchased with funds raised in 2023. Weekly moth surveys have shown an increasing variety of moths, and in 2025 there were as many as 250 species found on the farm.

This printmaking workshop will give you the opportunity to observe images of some of these species and select ones you’d like for your prints.

For those who have not heard of Tetra Pak Printmaking, Tetra Pak is the brand of carton packaging used for milks and juices, amongst other things. The interior of the carton is foil-lined and makes a versatile printing plate. The added bonus is, of course, being able to upcycle something that is usually discarded with the rubbish.

Tetra Pak prints look similar to etchings. However, without needing to use acid to etch the lines into the metal plates, this is a much safer way to produce your own original prints.

We are excited to have Genny’s intaglio press in residence at the Threshing Barn. It’s a versatile press with a roller, which is suitable for producing etchings, collagraphs and monoprints. Genny is hoping to offer workshops in several printmaking techniques while her press is in residence, but it all starts with the Tetra Pak!

What does the workshop involve?

In this three-hour workshop you will first incise your moth design into the Tetra Pak carton with a ball point pen. Genny will then demonstrate how to apply ink to the plate using the “intaglio method”. This involves wiping away the ink that you’ve applied to leave only the residue in the grooves you’ve incised. At this point you are ready to print your inked moth onto damp paper.

Once printed, you will be able to hand-tint your prints with watercolour paints and a fine brush. The addition of colour will truly bring your printed moth to life.

You do not need to be expert at drawing, as there will be moth silhouette templates that you can trace.

Genny will demonstrate all the techniques you need, and show plenty of examples to guide you on your way. Bookings are to be made directly with Genny at a cost of £60 per person by emailing genny@artygenny.com.

THE DETAILS

• The cost of this event is £60 (bookable with Genny directly)
• Book your place with the tutor by emailing genny@artygenny.com
• All art materials included
• This workshop is for adults only
• Refreshments will be available to buy from The Buzz Café, our coffee trailer run by CRT volunteers selling homemade cakes, tea, coffee and soft drinks
• Wear comfortable clothing with no dangling sleeves. The ink you’ll be using is oil-based and is unlikely to wash out of fabric, so please wear something you’re not too attached to
• Printmaking is messy; protective gloves will be provided, but ink still might get on your hands; Genny will show you the best way to remove ink from cuticles and nails but you are advised not to have an expensive manicure just before the workshop. Save it until after!
• Public parking in a specially designated and clearly marked field only
• Bring a packed lunch for afterwards, if you’d like to remain and get to know other participants.