Lots of folks want to print with leaves, flowers and grasses. All natural materials are not the same. Some are better than others for printing on the glycerin and gelatin plate.
To get the most detailed and interesting impressions when making prints with natural objects I look for 3 qualities.
Printing with Leaves and Grasses
- Leaves with interesting negative space. That means I look at the shape around the leaf and ask myself it is interesting or boring. Also if petals of the leaf touch each other then they will create one big space instead of separate petals. Do I want that?
- Texture on the back side of the leaf. Are the veins prominent? Will they create a detailed mark? More mature leaves generally have more distinct veins.
- Strong but flexible. Tender spring leaves usually flop and curl. They are hard to handle. Look for a sturdy flat leaf that with withstand, inking, moving and rubbing. Dried leaves are usually brittle and seem resistant to holding the ink.
Hope these tips help you with your next printmaking session with grasses and leaves.
Do you have other qualities that you look for when printing with objects from nature? If so share them in the comments section and inspire us.