The workshop preparation took longer than I expected, but it was a rewarding experience. Finding materials locally really helped streamline the process. I used 1/4” birch plywood sheets for easier carving, instead of maple. The carving knives I found came from different stores, so their quality varies—it’s all part of the discovery! I also made our own barens using 2×3 framing lumber, felt, rag, and rope, which added a personal touch to the project. 

The workshop started with a brief overview of the history of Chinese woodblock printmaking, followed by an introduction to the tools and materials, and a comparison of traditional versus modern techniques. It was inspiring to see everyone enjoy the process and produce impressive prints. Participants created numerous pieces, and toward the end, they exchanged ideas and shared experiences. I noticed that the carving process was somewhat challenging, mainly because of the varying quality of carving blades. As a result, I plan to update the materials for my next woodblock print workshop to simplify the process.