When the whole world was plunged into lockdown due to COVID19 in 2020, I suddenly had to come up with projects that my printmaking students could do at home without access to specialist equipment. One of the simplest methods of taking an impression from a matrix (printing surface) is through frottage, or rubbings. While the technique is simple, this doesn't mean the results can't be ambitious or creative. Determined not to settle for rubbings of coins, I began exploring the possibilities of frottage from the items I had at hand. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed the process and the results. Often the most mundane of objects - such as plastic biscuit packaging and kitchen implements - produced the most fabulous textures. I suspect the horizon may hold a few more forays into the transformative magic of frottage...  Click on individual images for behind the scenes snaps of works in progress.