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Natural Paints and Inks Workshop

  • Butser Ancient Farm Chalton Lane Hampshire, PO8 0BG United Kingdom (map)

Join bestselling author of 'Found and Ground', natural arts materials artist and teacher Caroline Ross for a dive into the colourful world of foraged, historical and natural paints and inks. Learn how to find and prepare pigments, make paints, brew inks and take away the start of a wild and ancient art kit. More importantly, gain the confidence to be able to make paints and inks almost anywhere, so that you never need be without the means to be creative. You'll get to smash galls, mull things over and turn things black. Chemistry, art, history and geology all combine in the world of colour, come and be part of the alchemy!

About the workshop

  • One-day workshop, 10am - 4pm with a short break for lunch

  • Learn how to find and prepare pigments

  • Discover how to make paints and brew inks

  • Gain the confidence to be able to make paints and inks almost anywhere

  • Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings

Caroline Ross is an artist and author who makes drawings and paintings from wild and ancient materials, from small illustrations to large murals. She has taught life drawing as well as painting and currently teaches people how to make the materials she uses across Europe and UK. She spends her life outdoors as much as possible, sourcing materials, making her work, and immersing herself in nature.

Included in your ticket

Entrance to the farm, a day’s tuition and expertise, and all materials will be provided. You will take away the start of a wild and ancient art kit. Feel free to bring along any colourful rocks you've found on your travels, as well as any little reused bottles you'd like to fill with ink.

workshop info

Please wear sensible clothing and footwear for this workshop. Ink can stain, so wear clothes you're happy to get messy, or bring an apron. A sketchbook or notebook, plus a pencil and your favourite paintbrush brush are a good idea, but loose paper and brushes will also be provided. 

Lunch is not included, although sandwiches (subject to availability), hot and cold drinks, and snacks are sold in our gift shop. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic if you prefer!


Earlier Event: March 28
Lunar Connect and Reset
Later Event: April 4
Using the Whole Animal Course