Collagraph Printmaking

Collagraph is a printmaking technique that uses a variety of materials to create an image. The materials are glued to a substrate, such as cardboard or wood, and then carved or scratched to create the desired image. The raised areas of the collagraph plate are inked and then pressed onto paper to create the print.

Materials

The basic materials needed for collagraph printmaking are:

  • Substrate (cardboard or wood)

  • Glue

  • A variety of materials to create texture (fabric, paper, thread, etc.)

  • Carving tools (knife, gouge, etc.)

  • Ink

  • Brayer

  • Paper

Tools

There are a variety of carving tools available, but the most basic set includes a V-shaped gouge, a straight edge, and a knife. The V-shaped gouge is used to create curved lines, the straight edge is used to create straight lines, and the knife is used to make fine cuts.

Ink

Collagraph ink is available in a variety of colors and can be purchased at most art supply stores. It is important to use a type of ink that is designed for printmaking, as other types of ink may not dry properly or may not adhere to the paper.

Brayer

A brayer is a tool used to apply ink to the collagraph plate. It is made of a wooden roller covered with a fabric sleeve. The fabric sleeve helps to distribute the ink evenly over the plate.

Paper

The type of paper used for collagraph printing is important. The paper should be thick enough to withstand the pressure of the printing process, but it should also be smooth enough to allow the ink to transfer properly. Some popular types of paper for collagraph printing include chine collé, watercolor paper, and printmaking paper.

Process

The process of collagraph printmaking is as follows:

  1. Choose a substrate and glue the materials to create your image. Be creative and experiment with different materials to create a variety of textures.

  2. Allow the glue to dry completely.

  3. Carve or scratch away the areas of the collagraph plate that you do not want to print. Be careful not to cut yourself!

  4. Apply ink to the plate with a brayer.

  5. Place a sheet of paper on top of the inked plate.

  6. Apply pressure to the paper with your hands or a printing press.

  7. Lift the paper to reveal your print!

Tips

Here are a few tips for collagraph printmaking:

  • Start with a simple design. It is easier to learn the basics of collagraph printmaking with a simple design.

  • Use a variety of materials to create texture. The more textures you use, the more interesting your print will be.

  • Be careful not to cut yourself when carving or scratching the plate.

  • Apply ink evenly. Make sure to apply ink evenly to the entire surface of the plate.

  • Use a heavy weight paper. A heavy weight paper will help to prevent the ink from bleeding through the paper.

  • Experiment with different colors. Collagraph printmaking is a great way to experiment with different colors. Try using different colors of ink to create a variety of effects.

Collagraph printmaking is a fun and rewarding art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a little practice, you can create beautiful and unique prints that will be cherished for years to come.


Khephra Hines