Class Length:
1 hour
Class Level/Prerequisites:
This class is open to anyone.
Class Format:
Lecture; taught in-person or online*.
Class Description:
We will discuss one of several methods for creating ink suitable for writing or drawing that was used throughout the Medieval and Renaissance time periods.
Using a recipe from a 1596 version of an English translation of “A Booke of Secrets: Shewing Divers waies to make and prepare all sorts of Ink, and Colours: as Blacke, White, Blew, Grene, Red, Yellow, and other Colours, Also to write with Gold and Silver, or any kind of Mettall out of the Pen: with many other profitable secrets as to colour Quills and Parchment of any colour: and to grave with strong Water in Steele and Iron”, we will complete the steps to create a dark brown-black ink from oak galls.
Note: Due to the time it takes to create ink using this method, I will demonstrate the first few steps and then the class will complete the steps on a separate batch of ink prepared earlier.
Each student will go home with a sample of oak gall ink.
Maximum Number of Participants:
In-person: 15-20 due to supply constraints
Online: no limit
Classroom Space Requirements:
In-person: We will need table space with enough chairs for the number of students.
Online: Being able to see the video is important and being able to share yourself on video is less important. *Please note that the hands-on portion of this class might not be possible with an online format.
Are Children Welcome?
Children are always welcome in my classes if they are willing to listen.
Mess Factor:
This class has a hands-on component that involves mixing very stainable liquids.
Supplies:
None needed
Handout:
Available upon request.
Dates and Locations Given
An Tir Collegium – 18 November 2023
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