Cryptids are mysterious animals and creatures whose existence remains unproven. But just in time for Halloween, Omnihedral Game Store is organizing an event that will allow participants to bring them to life through personalized carvings and creations.
“Carving and Cryptids” uses the technique of block printing to create personalized rubber stamps that can be used on a variety of materials. Once the design is complete, a specialized ink is rolled onto the stamp. The design is then ready to be applied on to clothing, cloth bags, pillow covers, napkins, posters, and more for a permanent, one-of-a-kind artwork.
Omnihedral’s partner on print-making classes is Shelley with Sunken Moon Studios. Shelley specializes in printing on thrifted and upcycled goods. We spoke with her to learn more about how she started with block printing.
How did you get into block printing?
I hosted a girls craft night where we all brought crafts we wanted to share and learn together. I brought block printing.
What are some of your favorite prints?
The Major Arcana Tarot is the first series I did, so they have a special place in my heart. I’d like to complete the Minor Arcana at some point and create a whole deck.
How did you begin teaching printmaking?
Many people I met at markets were asking how I carved my designs. Others knew how to carve themselves but needed some guidance. I did a test run at Omnihedral and it was so fun. Everyone really enjoyed themselves. So we started having more options for classes and it’s taken off from there!
What’s some advice for a novice printmaker?
Always carve away from yourself, go slow, and take breaks. Oh, and remember to relax your shoulders 🙂
Kitty, Omnihedral’s Event Coordinator, talked about how these classes fit with Omnihedral’s mission.
You partner with different organizations to bring events into your space. What do you particularly enjoy about your collaboration with Sunken Moon Studios?
Shelley from Sunken Moon is a great facilitator: she’s very good at communicating with attendees and is extremely encouraging of beginners. She goes above and beyond to demonstrate what she’s teaching and ensures that everyone goes home with something they’re happy with.
What role does art play in a game store?
Omnihedral’s mission statement is a commitment to “enriching life, learning, and doing through curated creative play” and that doesn’t just extend to trying new games or experimenting with our wide selection of STEM toys. Our community is endlessly creative and curious and always looking to stretch their brain with a new skill¬– artistic or otherwise– or find new ways to express themselves.
What is your goal with hosting workshops?
To back up our mission statement by creating a space for community learning and skill-sharing across a variety of subjects, to foster curiosity and an opportunity to try new things.
Do you have some other workshops you’d like us to know about?
I’ve been chatting with and bringing on new facilitators for 2027! I invite folks curious about any of our programs to keep on eye on Omnihedral.com for workshop announcements.