One of the things that I love about gelatin printmaking is printing with found stencils, like weeds and ferns.
What I find changes with the season. I look for very flat, flexible, delicate and strong. Weeds are often stronger than cultivated plants. They have to be to survive!
Here are my guidelines for collecting grasses, weeds and botanicals for gelatin printmaking:
- Flat is very important. Grasses can be trimmed or thinned out to make it flatter. Better negative space. Gently press between books or Plexiglas to flatten.
- Strong means they will last at least one day of printing. And they are easier to handle and position on the plate. But if you can only find flimsy spring weeds – give it a try.
- Be aware that they can cut into the plate or shed seeds. Usually it is easy to clean up with water and a rag.
- Dried leaves are usually too brittle, but thin dried grasses are usually great.
- You can preserve strong green botanicals with 1 part glycerin to 2 parts water. How to here.
- You can store strong grasses and ferns for many months. I use, phone books, file folders and cookie sheet trays.
Hopefully, you will now look at some weeds and grasses with a new eye for potential art making materials. I always find new treasures whether I am in the woods or on the city street.
Check out the current workshops and explore gelatin printmaking with found stencils and more.
