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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Strain the Gelatin through a Tarlatan

gelatin plate care / /

carefully pour the gelatin into a level pan by linda germainHere’s a tip for you if you melt your gelatin plates down and reform them if the get cracked and old.

  • I microwave the cut up pieces a few minutes at a time and check and stir to make sure that the gelatin is completely fluid again.
  • Set your pan on a level surface
  • Cover the container of gelatin with a tarlatan or cheese cloth and pour through the screen
  • You will catch a lot of ink, and miscellaneous gunk.

Here’s my video about melting down the gelatin in the microwave –  enjoy the music and just cut the gelatin up and melt it.  Don’t bother with the blender – it is not necessary.

If you would like to join me in the next session of Make Monotypes – the ecourse then sign up here and be the first to know.

Happy Printing,

Linda

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Printing over Gelatin Plate Prints

2010 / /

gelatin print and a thermo fax screen printWhat do you to with your gelatin plate prints?  Gelatin printmaking can produce piles of possibilities.  That is how approach it.  I make lots of books and journals.  And now that I have thermo fax machine I will be screen printing over some of those monoprints.

If you are interested in Jump Starting your Gelatin Printmaking – the ecourse then sign up for the mailing list and you will be the first to know when registration opens.

Happy Printing

Linda

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