About
Discover the centuries-old art of classical Turkish Ebru (paper marbling), recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. In this hands-on course, participants will explore classical marbling techniques, working with authentic materials and natural pigments to create intricate patterns and delicate flowers on water.
The course covers the whole master-apprentice training curriculum of 5-7 years. It includes all traditional floral compositions: floral patterns, carnations, tulips, hycainth, bouquets, viola, poppy and daisy.
Participants will gain an understanding of this unique art form and create their own original marbled artworks to take home.
Day 1 – Introduction to Classical Ebru and Fundamental Techniques
Students will begin by exploring traditional Ebru materials, including natural pigments, tools and the specially prepared thickened water. They will learn the fundamental principles of controlling paint on water and practise classical background patterns. The session will then progress to traditional Hatib patterns and the creation of single flowers, establishing a strong foundation for more advanced floral compositions.
Day 2 – Classical Flowers and Floral Compositions
Building on the first day’s techniques, students will learn to create classical hyacinths and carnations, followed by tulip bouquets. They will also explore violet compositions and the traditional Battal background, developing their skills in colour harmony, precision and floral arrangement.
Day 3 – Advanced Floral Techniques and Final Series
The final day will focus on more complex floral compositions, including five-stem and seven-stem poppies and daisies. Students will then bring together the techniques learned throughout the course to create a coordinated series of original Ebru artworks, combining classical backgrounds, individual flowers and floral compositions.
By the end of the three days, students will have experienced a progression from fundamental marbling techniques to sophisticated floral compositions, developing both technical confidence and an appreciation of classical Turkish Ebru.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
All levels of ability and experience are welcome. You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
What days/times do I attend?
Monday – Wednesday, 19 – 21 April 2027, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
All materials are provided on this course.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrolments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor biography
Dilara Karaağaç is a London-based classical Turkish Ebru artist, instructor, and founder of TTA Studio & Gallery (Traditional Turkish Arts). With nearly 20 years of experience, she specialises in traditional floral Ebru, creating intricate flowers and compositions on water using centuries-old techniques.
Having received her icazet (traditional master’s certification) from Prof. Dr. Ahmet Sacit Açıkgözoğlu, she is dedicated to preserving and passing on this UNESCO-recognised cultural heritage through authentic, hands-on teaching.
She regularly teaches at Yunus Emre Institute London, West Dean College, museums, cultural festivals, and her own studio. She is also the co-author of Floral Ebru: Turkish Marbling Projects, published by Bloomsbury in 2026.
