An Introduction to Natural Ink Making and Improvised Drawing Tools with Caroline Ross July 31/August 1 2026

Have you ever made a quill pen? Oak gall ink? Artist’s charcoal?

Join author of bestselling natural arts materials book ‘Found and Ground‘ and its follow up ‘Drawn From the Wild‘ Caroline Ross for this deep dive into making everything you need to draw and sketch, write and express yourself with nature’s inks and tools.

We’ll be gathering materials from the land around us, exploring botanical, tannins and pigment inks, plus making beautiful traditional and experimental pens from feathers, bamboo, plants and more. Over the two days you’ll learn a wealth of methods and techniques so that waste materials from your garden and treasures from country walks can be transformed into beautiful, long lasting art materials in your own kitchen.

Using what is abundant in nature, including so-called ‘invasive’ species, helps us reconnect to the seasons and to make a positive impact on our local environment. There’ll be ample time for questions as well as a chance to try out a huge range of natural art materials Caroline will be bringing along. All materials will be included and you’ll go home with ink, drawing tools and improvised brushes, but more importantly, the confidence to make everything you need for making art that doesn’t cost the earth, wherever you find yourself in the world.

The sessions will run from 10am-4.30 daily with all materials, refreshments and locally sourced lunches included.

For help with accommodation please message Sarah at sarah@thelimes.online