Embossed Creativity

With each turn of the handle by students, a piece of paper was taken from ordinary to extraordinary as it moved through the printmaking press during the FabLab’s workshop on Sept. 13. 

The Embossed Mini Poster Workshop allowed students to create 3D designs using printing blocks with raised patterns. Once the paper went through, the impression of the design would remain. 

Nicolette Kaylor, a FabLab Student Lead, stated embossing is a common practice used in the printing industry. This printing practice is commonly seen with greeting cards with a raised design, creating texture. 

“Embossed printing is a new process that we are doing in addition to our regular block printing, which is where you just ink the plate and put it through the press,” Nicolette said. “When you put the paper and the plate through instead of inking it, it takes paper up or down, making indentations in the paper to emboss it.” 

Alexis Reyes, an architecture major, stated that he was surprised that the library offers this type of hands-on experience for students. 

“There are more things to do here besides coming to read or study,” Alexis said. “There are a lot of things that people don’t know about what is offered here, like the recording and photo studios.” 

Alexis stated the options offered at the library, such as workshops, classes, and events, keep growing and growing. He encourages more people to get involved with what is available at the library. 

Makunna Huffman, a Coordinated Admissions Program student, stated she came to the workshop as a requirement from her University Success class but found it to be a rewarding experience. 

Makunna shared it is “great to have these creative endeavors” for students to enjoy and participate in regularly. She added that the mini poster would have a place on her wall for future inspiration. 

The Embossed Mini Poster Workshop is one of many events that UTA Libraries will host throughout the semester. These workshops help students explore their creative side and destress from the day but also teach life skills such as cooking or sewing. 

For future workshops and classes, stay tuned to the UTA Libraries website and social media channels on Facebook, Instagram and X for more information.