Textile Block Printing with Mahala Burns

Get creative with Mahala Burns: upcycle your fabrics or block print onto a tea towel in this hands-on textile printing workshop.
Ever wanted to learn how to block print onto fabric and upcycle your garments?
Join Quandamooka artist Mahala Burns for a playful dive into the world of textile block printing!
Mahala Burns is a lino print artist and proud descendant of the Nunukul, Ngugi, and Goenpul people of Quandamooka.
Based on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), where she has had the privilege of growing up on Country, Mahala draws deep inspiration from her connection to the land and sea. Her work celebrates the beauty of Quandamooka Bush and Sea Country, bringing it to life on fabric and into homes—sometimes softly, like the quiet whispers of memory.
Mahala loves to print on textiles—tea towels, tote bags, cushion covers, t-shirts, and more—sharing stories and textures through hands-on, accessible art. She also runs workshops with small groups and schools, encouraging creativity through intuitive, playful making.
In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn how to design, carve, and print bold, beautiful patterns onto fabric. Whether you're printing on a tea towel or giving new life to a favourite piece of clothing, you'll walk away with a one-of-a-kind creation and the skills to keep printing at home.
Whether you're a total beginner or just love getting crafty, come ready to get your hands inky and have fun!
What you’ll learn:
- How to design your own block print
- Carving techniques using easy-carve materials
- Printing onto fabric (tea towels provided or BYO clothing/fabric)
- How to care for your printed textiles
You’ll leave with a custom-printed piece and a fresh set of creative skills.
🖍 All materials provided — just bring along any garments or fabric you'd love to upcycle.
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Aboriginal Art Co
☕ Light refreshments provided to keep your creativity flowing.
Spots are limited – don’t miss this chance to learn from a block printing expert!
Aboriginal Art Co is also supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Australian Government through through Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS), with philanthropic support through Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and Creative Partnerships Australia via the Australian Cultural Fund (ACF).