I have seen these paper tube projects on pinterest and was inspired to make a stamping tool for gelatin printing.

So simple to make and yet I am thinking they will create a lovely delicate mark in the ink on the gelatin plate.

• I used just one small tube and
• cut it into 1/2 ovals.
• I use the paper cutter to cut them evenly
• Then I used the hot glue gun
• to hold them  all together.
• I tried not to get globs of glue on the bottom
• because those globs will print.

I did not have time today to try out my new printing tool but I will this week and then share some images with you.

If you have already printed with this tool and a picture then share them with the gelatin printmaking flickr group.

If you are interested in a gelatin printmaking workshop with me, then please check out the schedule here.  I keep the classes small so you get the most from you gelatin print class.

Treasured tools,  we all have our favorite tools right?

• Do you always choose that special brush that fits your hand perfectly?
• Or the one brayer that rolls just right?
• Or the jar of ink that is the perfect consistency?

I definitely have my favorite tools for gelatin printing.  This picture shows 2 of them.  Can you see the delicate grasses  on the left?  Not all grass and weeds are the same.

I look for grasses that are:

• thin but sturdy
• delicate and slightly dried, (fresh and green are weak)
• long enough for my paper
• variety of sizes

My second treasured tool is the metal film reel and other hand held metal pieces that I can use to stamp into the ink and remove ink or apply a thin layer of ink to the gelatin plate.

Today a team came to my studio to talk to me about the creative economy in Haverhill, MA.  They are putting together a video for the next Merrimack Valley Economic Development Council.  I got to show them the wonders of gelatin printmaking.  They were impressed with what was possible with a bit of ink, a slab of gelatin and some delicate grasses.

What are your go to treasured tools?