Trust yourself to make the next mark

monotype print / /
Multi layered monotype print by linda germain
Multi layered monotype print by linda germain

Sometimes it is scary to just make the next mark on a print that you really care about. I try not to get attached to a piece. But it is hard to be willing to ruin it or give it that one little mark that is going to make it pop.

Here are some tips to confident mark making with gelatin printing.  I do this minimize the risk and be willing to make the next mark:

  • I have several prints going at once so I am more willing to take chances
  • I wait a day or two to see if I gain any clarity and
  • In the end, it is just a piece of paper. Nothing ventured nothing gained.

What do you do to support yourself in taking risks?

 

Trust yourself to make the next mark Read More »

Lots of layers in today’s monotype print

Gelatin plate print / /
Monotype print by linda germain
Monotype print by linda germain

I continued playing with the hole style stencil today. I have a pile of prints with potential laying on the floor. Some folks might call them failed prints, but I prefer to see it the  other way.

If you want to join me in this process, then sign up for the next session of Make Monotypes.    This what one student had to say:

I am delighted at how well organized the class is and how much I am learning. Linda, you are a wonderful teacher. THANKS. Each lesson is well thought out, and the videos are easy to understand. I truly appreciate your interest in each student’s development. It has been absolutely perfect, and I am so grateful that you offered this class online. I hope you offer an advanced class sometime soon!
Elenor Martin Austria – Make Monotypes 2014

I hope you join us for 4 weeks of exploring making monotypes with out a press and on the glycerin plate.

Lots of layers in today’s monotype print Read More »

Making prints with the “hole” stencil

stencil print / /

Paper stencils for making monotypes by linda germain

Go to my flickr page to see today’s print.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/lgcreate/14001803157/

Today printed a few monotypes with the traditional stencil, which is the paper with a hole through which ink passes.

I often use the thin stencils to mask areas of the plate, or to transfer ink as in yesterday’s print.  But if you use the traditional hole stencil you can get a nice clean sharp edge impression. Stencil printing is great for those times when you want a sharp edge and you only need one impression.

If you want some support in exploring the different kinds of stencils and their applications, then sign join us in the next session of Make Monotypes

Making prints with the “hole” stencil Read More »

Roll with what “Life” gives you

stencils / /
Embrace the surprises of making monotypes - linda germain
Embrace the surprises of making monotypes – linda germain

Today I cleaned my brayers, palette and workspace. Sometimes it is nice just to start fresh, clean brayers and fresh ink and different stencils.

I was surprised that the surface of my plate developed tiny holes overnight.  I actually love it when my plate starts to deteriorate. I dug through my stack of stencils and found a few that I wanted to work with, but they were not holding and transferring the ink the way that I wanted.

So I pulled several prints experimenting with different techniques.  I got a few interesting mark, but I decided to give my stencils a quick coat of white acrylic paint.  Maybe that will help the stencils to hold and release paint in the way that I desire.

If you want some support to learn to roll with the opportunities that making monotypes can present, then register for the next session of Make Monotypes.  Read all the details here and check out the FAQ’s. Early bird savings until Friday, May 16th.

Roll with what “Life” gives you Read More »

Tiny Maple Tree in a Series of Monotype Prints

Gelatin plate print / /
Tiny tree as stencil for monotype printing on the glycerin plate by linda germain
Monotype print on the glycerin plate by linda germain

I have alway wanted to do a series of monotype prints with tiny trees.  I want to show the roots below the surface and the the leaves above the surface.

So today I gave it another shot.  It is challenging to use fragile plant materials to block and transfer ink. Below you can see how I placed the tiny tree on the plate ink side up when it was not in use.

Tiny tree as stencil for monotype printing on the glycerin plate by linda germain
Tiny tree as stencil for monotype printing on the glycerin plate by linda germain

If you are curious about monoprinting on the glycerin plate with inks on paper, then watch the video below, and sign up for the next session of Make Monotypes, a 6 week online printmaking course with ink on paper.  Early bird discount is available through Friday, May 17th.

Make Monotypes – printmaking without a press with Linda Germain from Linda Germain on Vimeo.

Tiny Maple Tree in a Series of Monotype Prints Read More »