Introduction to Risography

Introduction to Risography (digital edition) is a 2-part course aimed at the Riso-curious.

• 25th November (Session 1) & 2nd December (Session 2)

What is Risography? Why is it so bloody marvellous? And does Riso rhyme with miso? All this and more are answered when we take a deep-dive into all things Risographic at If by Magic.

As part of the course, you’ll plan and print a two-colour A3 work in a small edition (around 10–15 copies). Between sessions 1 and 2, you’ll have time to develop your work independently. Since this is the digital edition of the course, you’ll need some familiarity with image editing software.

Content and course fee

The course is for 4–6 participants and costs €130 per person (incl. VAT), with all materials provided. It’s led by artist and printmaker Robin Clifford Ellis, and takes place over two evenings at our studio in Vuosaari.

Session 1 (17:00–19:00)
In our first session, we’ll dive into the basics of Risography—how the machine works and how prints are made. We’ll look at examples of Riso-printed works together and explore the technique’s strengths, limitations, and quirks.

We’ll also talk about how you like to work and hear your ideas for the print session. Finally, we’ll go over best practices for preparing your files for Riso printing.

Session 2 (17:00–21:00)
This is the printing session. With Robin’s guidance, you’ll print your own two-colour work. In most cases, your prints will be ready to take home by the end of the evening.

Risography is a unique stencil-based printing process which combines the craft and expressiveness of traditional printmaking techniques such as screen printing with the speed and convenience of photocopying. As with other traditional printmaking processes, colours are printed one-at-a-time. Using real inks rather than toner, Riso prints have a unique look, with vivid, saturated colours and unique quirks which makes every print that little bit different from the next.