Printmaking

Discover How to Make Your Own Prints at Spotlight!

Are you looking for a new craft, but not quite sure which one to go for? If so, printmaking might be something you enjoy. For those of you who are not familiar with printmaking yet, but want to learn more, we have created a useful guide on how to create the best prints below.

What Is the First Step in Printmaking?

The first step in printmaking is creating your own design. You can create the design, illustration, or even artwork on a plain piece of paper. However, it is recommended to use a lead pencil for your design. These pencils are available at Spotlight.

Of course, not everyone is good at creating their own design. If you would prefer to grab a design online, you can do so. Print the image from your computer and simply cover the areas you would like to print in some lead pencil.

What Is the Second Step in Printmaking?

The second step in printmaking is transferring your design onto a wooden surface. Ideally, you want a smooth block of wood that is relatively easy to work with, since you must do some carving later.

To transfer your drawing onto the wood, place the drawing face down. Then, firmly rub the drawing to move the lead pencil lines to the block of wood you selected. Then, gently lift the paper from the wood to make sure the image has transferred properly.

What Is the Third Step in Printmaking?

Even though the drawing has transferred to the block of wood, the lines may be somewhat faint. To ensure you can see the drawing better for carving, go over your illustration with a pen. Once you are satisfied, place your wooden block on a rubber mat - this will prevent the block from slipping while you carve.

What Is the Fourth Step in Printmaking?

The fourth step is the carving process, which can be a whole lot of fun. While carving your image, make sure that you cut away from the body for safety reasons. Also, don't carve too deeply, just make sure your design is slightly elevated from the rest of the wooden block.

Since some designs can be quite detailed, make sure you have a smaller u-shaped gauge for detailed carving. To carve the image, simply remove the parts you have not filled with your pen. Once you have carved the image properly, you can test your print!

What Is the Fifth Step in Printmaking?

The fifth step is testing your print. To do this, simply add some ink on a palette or a piece of paper and mix it with a dull knife. When the ink is smooth, apply on a brayer. Make sure that your ink is spread evenly before moving onto the block.

When your ink is applied to the brayer, roll the ink over your carved block. Make sure everything is evenly covered before you test it. Before you test the block, also check if there are certain areas that have picked up ink, but that you did not want. While you do your first test, you can still correct your print. If you need to adjust some of the print, make sure you reapply the ink afterwards.

What Is the Last Step in Printmaking?

Once you are satisfied with the design and have applied the ink, place the paper onto the block. Then, use a tool to press the paper gentle onto the carved block. While pressing, make sure your paper does not slide. Once you start seeing the image through the paper, it is time to take the print off.