masking stencils

Tyvek® Stencils for Gelatin Printmaking

masking stencils / /

tyvek stencils for gelatin printmaking by linda germainToday, I am playing with a few simple stencils that I cut from a Tyvek® envelop.  The envelop had a little texture that I think adds to the impression in the ink.  I am also experimenting with limiting the colors and stencils.  Boundaries can help the discovery process.

One wonderful thing about Tyvek® stencils for gelatin printmaking is that they are durable and long lasting.  When I take all the time to cut stencils, then I want them to last for ever.  Cutting stencils is not the fun part for me.  If you would like some of my stencil cutting tips then check out this post.

See another style of stencils with Tyvek® in this post.

If you would like to explore monotype printing on the the gelatin and glycerin plate, then check out the details of my classes.

 

Happy Printing!

Linda

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Two tips to learn to see Negative space

masking stencils / /

Post by Linda Germain

© 2013 linda germain      Stencils drying during workshop

These stencils caught my eye during the recent gelatin printmaking class.   I like to use figures in my prints and the way these ladies were draped over the back of this chair, just grabbed my attention.

I think they are simply photocopies  on regular paper or on card stock.  They look like they have a coat of mat medium on them and are drying in between coats.

The black and white one has great negative space.

One way I check for interesting negative space is I look at the stencil from the back and if it is still interesting then I think it has an interesting shape/negative space.

Another test that I do, is I squint at the image and try to imagine it as a solid impression, without the details.  Identifying expressive negative space and shapes takes a little practice.

Look for “holes” created by the parts of our stencil.  like the arms and legs are doing above.

Happy Printing!

 

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8 hints for cutting stencils for gelatin printmaking

gelatin print tips, masking stencils / /

Post by Linda Germain

© 2013 linda germain cutting stencils from magazines for gelatin printing

I was flipping through some old magazines looking for some new masking stencils for gelatin printing.  I like people in motion or with interesting negative shapes.  They are harder to find than you think.

Here’s some things I learned about cutting stencils:
  • Use a new sharp razor blade to get smooth cuts
  • Move the paper instead of moving the blade
  • Cut the tiny details first – it is more stable this way
  • Try to keep as many small details as you can
  • look at the image from the backside to check for interesting shape
  • Your scraps may be interesting stencils too.
  • Don’t be afraid to cut past the outline several times when cutting a delicate curve
  • Be open to new images and shapes
Check the current workshop list for a class that would interest you.

 

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Favorite masking stencils for gelatin printmaking?

masking stencils / /

 

© linda germain 2013
16″ x 20″
gelatin plate monotype print w/ akua Kolor inks

Do you find yourself going to the same or similar tools and stencils?

I am drawn to my people masking stencils.

  • I like putting people in combination with grasses and circles.
  • I like when the figures are layered and some are hidden and slightly revealed
  • I like how they can give a print focus.
  • I like how they can pop.
What you you like about your favorite stencils?  What do they do for your gelatin prints?
Check out these posts on making masking stencils.

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3 stencil cutting tips for gelatin printmaking

2010, gelatin plate tips, masking stencils / /
©2012 linda germain – cutting masking stencils for more gelatin prints

I would rather be playing with ink and mark making tools than cutting stencils but I have to do it to create some new imagery.  These are a few more of my Ellsworth Kelly inspired line drawings.  

I cut the paper first and then coat with mat medium.  The paper is easier to cut that way, but it is more challenging to coat the stencils with mat medium.  They want to curl and stick to the table.

Also the mat medium really saturates the edged this way too. The helpful ideas are:

  1. Use a fresh sharp blade.   This is not the place to be frugal.
  2. When cutting along a line turn the paper instead of turning the knife.  This will give you a smoother cut.
  3. Cut the tiny details first.  The stability of the rest of the paper will make it easier to cut these details.

Oh..  Remember to breathe.  I use wax paper and coat both sides of the masking stencil several times so that it becomes very strong.

We make stencils as part of the Make Monotypes, online class.  Join the list to hear about the next session.

Post by Linda Germain

 

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