Hands-On Woodblock Printing

Making Japanese handicraft at Kyoto Handicraft Center

By Karen Zheng

Community writer

My completed woodblock print of a 'Maiko' (apprentice Geisha).

Basic introduction to woodblock printing prior to starting.

Interior of Kyoto Handicraft Center - workshop area

Water-based paint to be spread over the woodblock.

Carved woodblock of Maiko (apprentice Geisha)

Dorei (clay doll) that one can paint with watercolour.

9 different traditional Japanese handicraft workshops available at Kyoto Handicraft Center.

Widely appreciated at art galleries and museums across Japan, woodblock prints boast a popular culture that has gained popularity since the Edo period (1603 – 1867). The Kyoto Handicraft Center allows you a hands-on experience of creating your own woodblock prints. With 6 woodblocks to complete for each print, one can easily complete the artwork with the guidance of an instructor. Making your own woodblock prints is a fun activity and the end products can be special souvenirs for family or friends. Besides woodblock printing, Kyoto Handicraft Center also offers 8 other types of traditional Japanese handicrafts. Reservation is generally not required unless you are travelling in a large group.