More on Printmaking Technique

Here is another example of a block I did using the xerox roll up technique. Several of you have written to me to ask about the steps involved. I will describe below with the assumption that you have some experience with printmaking techniques (please note that other than silk screen, I had very little experience!)

First, the image

As with the image below I printed on canvas. I like the added texture and graininess that canvas adds to the image. I have not decided whether I will keep the border on the finished piece or not. Maybe I will cut it down. I don’t know yet. Anyway, here are the steps I learned to create this image.

1. Make a copy of a personal photograph or copyright-free image. Enlarge the image if you choose.
2. Cover the back of the copied image with a light coating of gum arabic and attach it to your plexi-glass plate (make sure that your plate has beveled edges before you run it through the press).
3. once you have attached the copy to the plate cover the front of the image with a light coating of gum arabic.
4. At this point I have a bucket with a large sponge on my printing table. I also roll out my ink making sure it has a nice swishing sound when I roll it out (I know, not scientific but what can I say!?)
5. Take the sponge and squeeze water on the image covered with gum arabic. Blot the water with the sponge.
6. Starting in the middle of the image (not on the edge where it will tear or lift the image) begin to roll ink over the copy.
7. ALternately squeeze water over the image, blot and roll ink until you begin to see a build up of the ink. Then you are ready to print.
8. Follow necessary procedures to protect the press before you are ready to print.

I learned this technique at the Atlanta Printmaker’s Studio from Terri Dilling. Hope I have answered your questions!

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