2010

I like to use recycled papers. These cards are printed on paint samples that I got from the Reuse store in Lynn MA. I used a thermofax screen and love how I can have a stack of cards all different colors.

I am getting ready for the Haverhill Holiday Sale and I used some of the cards on the tree with small artwork and cards.

Hope to see you on

• Saturday, Dec 5th
• 12 to 6
• 90 Washington St, Haverhill @
• Haverhill Art Market and during the
• Christmas Stroll

I like to experiment with different methods of printmaking without a press. That includes:

• Gelatin plate monotype printmaking
• Relief block printing
• Trace monoprinting
• Various transfer methods with copies
• Screen printing

Each method has its strengths and weaknesses. Most folks have heard of screen printing, because I think we all have a screen printed t-shirt or two.

My experimenting tells me that screen printing is a good choice when:

• I want to make many prints of the same impression
• I want a strong line drawing
• I want a photographic style image
• I want to print an all over random pattern

There is some prep and planning time involved in screen printing. But once you start pulling prints it goes really fast. If this sounds like something that you would like to add to your printmaking process, then join us in the next session of Pulling Screen Prints, the online printmaking class. Check out the details here. 

You can get the early bird discount until December 1st. Give yourself a holiday gift and sign up today.

Most years I like to make a holiday ornament. This year it celebrates an Iconic bridge in my hometown of Haverhill, Massachusetts.

It was a bit more work than I had hoped. But as I developed the image I looked for what I liked. I kept that and let go what was not working. I made a couple of screens, printed them on practice paper and tweaked my image.

The challenge was getting the text to compliment the image and not lose the feel of the Basiliere Bridge. Lessons learned:

• Keep the parts of the design that I like
• Let go of things that don’t work
• Keep trying out ideas
• Test on paper but,
• Test on the real final product too
• Time spent in developing the design will be time well spent
• Failure informs the process

If you want to learn about screen printing and more about developing designs for different screen printing methods then join us in the next session of Pulling Screen Prints, the online printmaking class.

Sign up early. Details here.

Have you ever worn a t-shirt with a decal that was stiff and plastic feeling? Some thick applications of screen printing ink can feel that way too.

If you want to transform a silky scarf with some screen printed marks, then here’s one way to do it and keep the soft hand of the fabric.

• Mix screen printing ink with equal parts shaving cream
• Mix until smooth and consistent
• Place paper under the scarf, because the impression will bleed through to the table
• Pull your impressions
• Allow to dry

I have tested this and my printed marks are permanent. I think it is best to test your fabrics and if you can allow them to set for several weeks before hand washing. Of course you can always follow the manufacturers instructions that come with your inks.

If you would like to explore this method of screen printing and several more screen printing techniques, with the support of class and teacher, then check out the details for Pulling Screen Prints, online printmaking course. Registration opens November 14th. and class starts January 11th.