monotype print

One printmaking assignment in Art School might be to see how many different kinds of marks you can make on a relief style block.

This would usually be a carving process with wood, linoleum or rubber. I played with the assignment to make the sampler blocks above with soft foam plates.

I think I like the assignment, because it focuses on exploration and discovery. There is no pressure to create an end product.

But in the end, the marks can be used to create texture and value in other wise simple impressions.

If you would like to explore this low tech method of relief printing, the read the details about the upcoming, online workshop and join us.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Be aware that they can cut into the plate or shed seeds. Usually it is easy to clean up with water and a rag.
4. Dried leaves are usually too brittle, but thin dried grasses are usually great.
5. You can preserve strong green botanicals with 1 part glycerin to 2 parts water. How to here.
6. 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.

May 1st is the global Print Day in May this year! I encourage you to print and share your passion on social media to celebrate printmaking.

It is easy to do.

1. Print
2. Share images with the hashtag #PrintdayinMay
3. You can register as a participant here – https://printdayinmay.com
4. If you use special hashtags you are eligible to win sponsors prizes more details here https://printdayinmay.com/2021-sponsors/

So just have fun making prints and share with others. Maybe print with a friend.

I will be printing with the idea of Simplifying to make more powerful gelatin plate monotype prints.

I list some fun printmaking ideas for you and your friends in this post.

Enjoy!