Space for Gelatin Printmaking – How much do you need?

gelatin plate care / /

 

© 2013 linda germain  This is how I set up my space for gelatin monotype printing.

One of the benefits of taking a workshop at my studio is that I give you lots of space to spread out and create.  Check out the class schedule here.

But is all that space necessary?  Can you make beautiful gelatin prints in a smaller space, with fewer materials?  I think yes!  But I am going to experiment with that idea for a while.  I am going to print at  home with less stuff.
© 2013 linda germain Mixing up 2 cups of gelatin
for printmaking.  See the video here.
So I found a foam meat tray from the trash bin and mixed up 2 cups of gelatin.
 I had to share the counter with the rest of the family.  I let it harden there and then transferred it to the refrigerator.
I found a good hiding place for it under one of the draws.
© 2013 linda germain Leveling the tray of gelatin
with a folded paper shim.

The counter top was not quite level so I shimmed the foam tray with a piece of folded paper.

I was very careful to slowly pour the gelatin in to the tray so that it did not dribble all over the place.  That can be quite a mess to clean up.

© 2013 linda germain  – Sightly frozen gelatin  for printing

I am not sure if you can tell from the photo, but my gelatin plate froze a little.

This can happen when the refrigerator it on a cold temperature, or if the gelatin is too close to the back of the refrigerator.

This freeze was not too deep so the plate is ok to use.  I just chipped off the ice and put some newsprint on top to absorb the moisture.

Sometimes those freeze lines can make interesting print marks.

© 2013 linda germain – small space experiment for
gelatin printmaking

So I have claimed this little table for some gelatin plate printmaking.  I don’t have to clean up or share it with anyone else.  The lighting is pretty good.

I made a 5″ x 7″ framing mat out of an old mat.

What is your workspace like?

Space for Gelatin Printmaking – How much do you need? Read More »

Do you collect tools for Mixed Media Printmaking?

stamping tools / /

When I am in the flow, I see mark making tools all around me.

Do you?

I  pick it up and add it to my box of treasures.  You never know what is going to make a fabulous impression in the ink on your gelatin plate.

Do you recognize some of the “tools” in my
boxes?

Even better than using my tools is to start your own box of stamping tools for gelatin plate monotype printing.  

You could post your tools picture with the Gelatin Printmaking flickr group or the Gelatin printmaking Facebook page.  Share a link  to pictures of your box of tools in the comments below and inspire us!

Happy Printing.

Do you collect tools for Mixed Media Printmaking? Read More »

Gelatin Printmaking Workshop- Austin@ the WPA

monotype print / /

 

© linda germain 2013 gelatin monotype prints with various techniques

I want you to be able to take advantage of the early registration discount for the fabulous 3 day gelatin printmaking marathon that is taking place at the studios of the Women Printmakers of Austin.  To save the money you must register before March 1st.  Go to the site and register now.

Who is this workshop for?  

Printmakers, mixed media artists, fiber artists, art therapists, educators from elementary school to college, anyone who would like to play with gelatin printmaking.

Experience is not necessary but an open mind and a willingness to try is most helpful.

What is Gelatin Printmaking?

a friendly, non-toxic method of printing without a press. It is an easy and fun way of making marks and images on paper that can become framed artwork, journals, cards and books.  It is hands on and immediate form of monotype printing.

I hope to see you there.   Go to the site and register now.

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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.

Favorite masking stencils for gelatin printmaking? Read More »