Recent print made by Melissa Dettloff

A glimpse behind the curtain into the mind and passion of the artist and her love of teaching the craft

Introduction

Screen printing is more than just a method of making designs; it’s a gateway to creativity and self-expression for makers everywhere. At The Hawk Makerspace, we’re excited to celebrate this versatile art form, and there’s no better guide to introduce you than Detroit-based teaching artist and printmaker Melissa Dettloff. With over 25 years of printmaking experience, Melissa’s colorful and inventive works span mediums from screen printing to ceramics and fiber arts.

We had the chance to sit down with Melissa to chat about what goes into the art of printmaking, her unique approach to the craft, and what students can look forward to in her upcoming course. Here’s a glimpse into our conversation with this talented artist, including her insights and tips to ignite your creativity!

 

What drew you to the art of screen printing?

I took a printmaking class as an art student in college, and I was drawn to its accessibility and ability to make multiples. I saw the power in being able to make multiples of my ideas, and screen printing is easy enough to set up at home, so I could keep doing it beyond college. Also, I love working with color, and screen printing is a great medium for experimenting with color.

 

Recent prints made by Melissa Dettloff

What sets screen printing apart from other artistic disciplines?

It’s very process-based, so if you have that kind of brain, screen printing is for you. I love to see what people do with the process – I am always learning new things from students – and their enthusiasm for the process reignites my enthusiasm for this medium I’ve been working in for almost 25 years. Parts of the process have to be done in a certain way with certain tools, so there are some limitations, but there are lots of ways to be creative and expressive within those limitations. And instead of making one thing, like one drawing or one painting, you can print an edition of 10, 20, 50 and share it with more people.

 

You print on both paper and fabric- which is your favorite medium?

I like printing on paper because it’s a more stable substrate, and you can do more with color overlays on paper than fabric. Also, when you’re done printing on paper, you have a finished piece. When I print on fabric it’s to then sew that fabric into something else, so there’s a little more work involved. But I also enjoy having clothing and other items that are made from fabric I’ve printed. It’s a way to get my artwork out into the everyday real world, by wearing something I’ve made.

 

What can students expect to come away with after taking your Into to Screen Printing class?

Students will have a basic knowledge of how screen-printing works, and the tools needed to continue practicing at home if they wish. The method I teach in the class can be easily replicated at home. If students already work in a different medium, they’ll learn how screen printing can complement that practice. Screen printing goes well with painting and drawing, for example.

 

Do you have any words of encouragement for those who are just beginning their screen-printing journey?

Keep at it! It takes practice but is an extremely rewarding medium with a lot of potential for all kinds of projects.

 

It’s your turn to learn with Melissa!

Melissa will be teaching Intro to Screen Printing in The Hawk Makerspace, starting Tuesday, April 29 from 6-9 PM. 

In this 6-week hands-on class, you'll learn how to print bold, colorful designs on both paper and/or fabric using a variety of fun, easy-to-learn techniques—many of which you can even do at home. Basic materials are included in the registration fee.