Suminagashi Japanese Ink Marbling

Description

$48.50 1 Hour / Session All Levels, Beginner Friendly In-Person Class Materials: Included

East Village in New York

Explore suminagashi, the Japanese art of floating ink on water, in this beginner-friendly marbling class in NYC.

In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how ink moves across the surface of water and how small gestures can create flowing, one-of-a-kind patterns. Using breath, brushes, and gentle movement, you’ll guide the ink, then transfer your designs onto washi paper and fabric.

Suminagashi has a long history in Japan and is appreciated for its quiet, fluid process. Each print captures a moment that cannot be repeated, making the experience both calming and playful.

This class is taught by Kohfu Furukawa, a New York-based visual artist originally from Japan whose practice bridges traditional Japanese art and Western art. She has a deep background in calligraphy and sumi-e, and brings years of teaching experience with students in New York.

No drawing or painting experience is needed. This class is a good fit for anyone who wants to try Japanese ink art, explore paper marbling, or spend an hour making something beautiful by hand.

What You’ll Learn

  • Learn the basic history and meaning of suminagashi, Japanese “floating ink” marbling
  • Practice dropping ink onto water and watching how the patterns shift and expand
  • Use breath, brushes, and subtle movement to guide ripples and shapes
  • Transfer your marbled designs onto washi paper and fabric
  • Create one-of-a-kind prints with flowing patterns and organic movement
  • Enjoy a calm, beginner-friendly art process that does not require drawing skills
  • Leave with your own marbled pieces to keep or give as a gift

How The Class Works

  • This is a hands-on, one-session class. The instructor will introduce the suminagashi process, demonstrate how to work with ink on water, and guide you as you create your own marbled designs.
  • You’ll have time to experiment with different movements, patterns, and surfaces before transferring your final prints. The class is relaxed and beginner-friendly, with guidance throughout the session.

Supplies And Materials

  • All materials for the in-class suminagashi activity are included. You’ll work with ink, water, brushes, washi paper, and fabric items such as handkerchiefs to create your marbled designs.

Space and Atmosphere

  • Large windows with great natural light)
  • Exposed brick walls and stylish ambiance
  • Spacious 1,200 sqft ground-floor storefront
  • Flexible seating and table layouts available
  • Free Wi-Fi available for hosts and guests
  • Air conditioned / Well-heated

What To Bring

  • Because this class uses ink, we recommend wearing clothing you would not mind getting a small mark on.

Cancellation Policy

We aim to be fair to both learners and instructors while ensuring artists and studios are paid for their work. This policy helps ensure instructors and studios are compensated for their time and preparation. We encourage learners to review class details carefully before booking and to reach out with any questions in advance.

Tickets are refundable if canceled at least 7 days before the event. Please note that processing fees are non-refundable, even if your ticket is canceled. If you’re unable to attend, you’re welcome to give your ticket to a friend. Please have them check in using your name.

In the rare case that the event does not meet minimum participation requirements, we’ll contact ticket holders at least 48 hours in advance with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund (excluding third-party processing fees).

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at suport@dobedous.com.

Location

East Village, 91 E 3rd Street, New York, NY, 10003 View Direction

Additional information

Versatile 1,200 sqft East Village storefront in New York, NY. With its large windows, this prime first-floor location has a special ambiance showcasing exposed brick walls, ideal for hosting vibrant events for up to 74 guests.

Your Instructor

For over 20 years, RESOBOX’s creative practice has been rooted in New York City, where the studio bridges traditional Japanese cultural crafts with modern, vibrant spaces. Through curated workshops in bonsai making, ikebana flower arranging, sushi making, and other Japanese cultural practices, RESOBOX works to make centuries-old master techniques accessible and engaging for contemporary audiences.

Its teaching philosophy centers on cultural immersion and community, turning a spacious, light-filled studio into a welcoming gathering place for shared creative experiences. RESOBOX’s work is grounded in preserving rich heritage while sparking personal inspiration in each participant.

Who This Is For

  • Adults, 18+
  • 16-17 with a parent or legal guardian

Good To Know Tips

Arrive a little early

Please arrive about 10 minutes before the class starts so you can settle in comfortably.

Check your confirmation email

After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with directions and any important details for the class.

What to expect

Class format, materials, and preparation are all outlined in the class description. Most classes are beginner-friendly unless noted otherwise.

About the instructor

All classes are taught by vetted artists and makers who are experienced in both their craft and teaching.

Why DoBeDoUs

We offer local, artist-led classes that support ongoing creative learning and bring people together through community.

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RESOBOX

What we love about this studio

Where Japanese Culture Meets New York

Japanese culture is not presented here as something distant or fixed. At RESOBOX, it becomes something that can resonate, mix, and evolve in New York. Their classes invite learners into the craft, philosophy, and people behind Japanese traditions while leaving room for each person’s own background and perspective to enter the experience.

Approachable Classes with Plenty to Discover

RESOBOX makes cultural learning feel approachable without losing its depth. The classes are hands-on, guided, and welcoming, so beginners can participate comfortably even when the technique is new. Whether students are working with bonsai, ikebana, ink painting, tea ceremony, decorative sushi, or another Japanese art form, there is a nice balance between learning a specific skill and enjoying the process of slowing down, observing, and trying something outside of everyday routine.

A Lively East Village Cultural Space

The studio itself adds to the experience. Located in the East Village, RESOBOX feels like more than a classroom. It is a 1,200-square-foot ground-floor storefront with large windows, natural light, exposed brick walls, and a warm, stylish atmosphere. Flexible table and seating layouts allow the space to shift between workshops, exhibitions, events, and community gatherings. The setting feels active, open, and creative, giving learners a chance to experience Japanese culture in a way that feels grounded in New York City.

View School’s Profile

Learn Japanese ink marbling and create one-of-a-kind patterns on washi paper and fabric.

Still Have Questions?

If you don’t see what you’re looking for, view our FAQs or contact us.

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Gifting

Give the joy of artmaking. Coming Soon.

A DoBeDoUs Gift Card is a thoughtful way to give something meaningful to your loved ones. They can use it to join any class that inspires them. Gift cards never expire, have no extra fees, and are delivered instantly by email.