When is the last time you blew bubbles? That’s for kids right? Well, you know that I embrace the idea – “if you think it, then try it,” when making monotype prints.
So, I tried blowing bubbles in my glycerin and gelatin printing plate, as it was hardening up.
Why? Well, some of my favorite monotypes were pulled on an old moldy gelatin plate. That was before I knew about adding glycerin. You can watch a quick slideshow of some of those prints here.
As the plain gelatin and water printing plate ages, it develops holes. These holes cause the ink to transfer to the paper differently. It is an unpredictable process, but I love the results. You may want to experiment with your printing plate.
The glycerin plate lasts so long and is so durable, that it does not age and mold the way the plain gelatin and water plate does. Most people would think that is a good thing. But I missed the affects of aging gelatin.
Here are 3 things I learned about blowing bubbles in the glycerin plate:
- Try different size straws
- Experiment with a small plate
- If you don’t like it melt it down and try again
If you give this process a try, then share your results with the gelatin printmaking flickr group.
Linda Germain
Ah yes, I so love the marks of the moldy spots. What a great idea.