Blog Posts

  Specialist Crafts Paper Guide   Cartridge paper is one of the most commonly used papers in schools today. Its plain, smooth sufrace makes it ideal for designing and sketching with pencils, pens and inks. We strive to offer a range of sizes in a variety of weights. All are good qualty and excellent value. Use our chart below to see ...

From Block to Print: Finding Your Ideal Ink   When it comes to printmaking, the ink you choose can completely transform your results. Whether you’re carving a lino block, etching a metal plate, or pulling vibrant screen prints, each process demands its own specialist ink. From the rich consistency of etching inks to the tacky texture ...

  If you’re looking for materials suitable for CO₂ laser cutting or engraving, we’ve put together a helpful list to get you started.   See the products in the tables below that are generally suitable for use with a CO₂ laser or engraving machine. Please note that laser machines can vary, so always check your ...

  Professional Aluminium Pre-Meshed Frames   If you need a more professional print finish then opt for our range of Professional Aluminium Frames. Aluminium frames are more robust and ideal for heavy use. Screens stay tight for longer ensuring reproducible results. Available in multiple sizes they are pre-meshed in three grades of ...

Choosing the Perfect Finish   Glazing can make or break a ceramic piece, but choosing the right one doesn’t have to be confusing. With so many options, glossy, matte, transparent, or textured, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular ceramic glazes, explain their unique qualities, and help you ...

    Finding the right clay:   Confused about which clay and glaze to use? The information below will help you make the right choice for the type of work you are doing and the finish you want to achieve.    Considerations prior to clay and glaze selection:   - Some clays have very wide firing ranges, enabling ...

Choosing the Right Kiln for Your Creative Journey   Whether you’re a passionate potter, a ceramics teacher, or a professional sculptor, the kiln you choose can make all the difference in your craft. At Specialist Crafts, we understand that every studio has unique needs, from compact, top-loading models ideal for small spaces to robust ...

Is it safe?   Clays and glazes are delivered from natural pigments and materials. These days, commercially produced wet glazes and clay bodies tend to use fritted components, this means that any toxic elements have been encapsulated to greatly reduced hazards.   We have Safety Data Sheets for all our clays and glazes which include ...

  From cave paintings to street murals, art has always been a way of speaking when words fall short. For today’s students, facing the realities of climate change, inequality and identity, creative activism offers both a safe space and a powerful platform. When art becomes activism, lessons move beyond skill to meaning, giving young ...

  Sunlight pouring through the glasshouses, sketchbooks in hand, as Timmy Mallett led the way. Our September workshop at Kew Gardens was a day of colour and creativity from the very start with Timmy trading his famous Mallett for a painter’s palette.     Contents Introduction from TimmyExploring Kew GardensPlen air ...