Printmaking with Stencils – no press needed

stencils / /

Paper stencils for making monotypes by linda germainI have been playing with cutting simple stencils from paper.  I like to keep the stencils small so they are easy to print with.  The duct tape on the edges is a great way to stabilize the stencil and it gives you a nice border to block the transfer of unwanted ink.

Stencils are a great way of making prints without having a press.  They are easy to clean and care for.

Make some stencils today and go and play!

If you want to join me in “Make your Mark with Monotype Prints” the E-Course then sign up for the mailing list and be the first to know when registration opens.

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Installing Make your Mark Sign

2010, Haverhill / /

Installing Make your Mark sign on my car Linda Germain

I had a vinyl sign made by the Sign Center, a local company here in Haverhill.  I got the idea from the Assets for Artist’s Program that I participated in last year.  I thought about it for a long time and had it on my to do list for ever.

Now It is Done!

The wind gave us a challenge, but the sunny warm day is fantastic.  Now I have to wash the rest of my car!

Mark making is such a cool term.  I love using inspired objects to make marks.  I found a lovely old hand made doily that I plan to use on my gelatin plate this weekend.

I will share the results on Monday.

If you want to explore mark making with me in my upcoming online course, then be sure to sign up for the newsletter and I will send you the details as they develop.

Happy Printing!

Linda

 

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Making Monotypes without a Press

2010, inspiration / /
montage of monotype Prints by linda germain
montage of monotype Prints

How can you make prints without having a printing press?  You can use  few different methods:

Each method has it’s strengths and weakness, and therefore is better for certain applications.

A few years back, I took an intro to printmaking class and was hooked, but after the class ended I did not have a press to work with.

I tried an open studio at a local college but that was limiting too.  Eventually I found gelatin plate monotype printing and it was love at first “print.”  It is the ability to obtain a wonderful detailed impression without having a press that is the attraction for me. I also love the immediate, fluid process of gelatin printmaking.  Also I use non-toxic water based inks with the gelatin plate, which is good because I seem to be sensitive to oil based inks now.

Hand cut stencils can be used over and over again, but each time the impression is going to be different.

Mark making tools affect the ink differently every time.  I love that.

Do you prefer surprise or sameness?  If you are into surprise then be sure to join my mailing list to be the first to know about my upcoming e-course on Making Monotype with the Gelatin Plate.

Enjoy!

Linda

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Be Inspired by Decay – Draw Doodle Print

inspiration / /

seed pods for inspirationI am overwhelmed by all the possibilities in my life, day and art.  Sometimes I just have to stop and simplify.

Here in New England the plants are dying and shriveling up for the winter.  Today I stopped in the garden and pulled up a couple of seed pods  and did a couple of quick sketches on Index cards.  I love index cards ever since the Index Card a day challenge with Tammy Garcia from Daisy Yellow.  They are the perfect size for turning into small thermofax screens.  Then your drawing can be printed here and there and everywhere.

Do you see beauty in decay?  Do you use it in your work?

Linda

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Different Gelatin Plate Recipes

gelatin plate tips / /

gelatin and glycerin plate for printingI am planning my course material for Make Monotype an online printmaking course, and wondering if you are as curious about all the different gelatin plate recipes as I am.  I think that each type of plate has it’s strengths and weaknesses.  Some work better in different situations and all give a slightly different impression.  If you have the desire to find out what recipe is best for you then sign up here and be the first to know about Make Monotypes – the ecourse with Linda Germain.

Check out current online printmaking classes on the workshop page.

Happy Printing!

Linda

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