Blog Posts

  The Importance of White in Art   White may seem simple at first glance, but it has played a vital role in art for centuries. From subtle highlights that give paintings depth to brilliant strokes that make a canvas shine, white is far more than a neutral tone, it is the foundation of painting:   - Creating highlights that give ...

While Winchester greeted us with grey skies and a steady drizzle, inside The Arc the atmosphere was bright, creative and full of energy. Yesterday Specialist Crafts joined 12 art teachers and technicians for an uplifting workshop led by Berkshire Printmakers’ brilliant duo, Sarah Martinez and Cipriano Martínez. What could have been an ...

    Why Screen Printing MattersThere’s something magical about that first pull of a squeegee, the hush before the reveal, when the image appears bold against the paper. Screen printing is one of those techniques that never fails to capture attention. It’s immediate, playful and deeply satisfying; it teaches students that art ...

  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 ...