Debra Brochin - Printmaking Process

Printmaking Process

The printmaking process can be broken down into three steps:

Preparing a plate or block, image will be reversed when printed.

Applying ink to the plate.

Pressing the ink from the plate onto paper using an etching press which has a large roller that squeezes the ink from the plate to the paper.

There are a multitude of techniques that are used in printmaking the following are a few of my favorites:

Monotype

I apply ink or paint to a Plexiglas plate using a brayer (roller) or brush.
Once I am happy with my image I use an etching press which has a large roller that squeezes the ink from the plate to the paper.

Collagraph

I use masonite or cardboard for a plate.
Then I build up the surface using found objects, cardboard, and acrylic mediums.
The next step is to ink the plate, lay the paper on the plate facedown then run it through the press.

Lino-cut

Using a linoleum plate I carve my image in reverse into the linoleum.
After inking the plate, lay the paper face down on the plate.
Using a wooden spoon I rub the back of the paper until enough ink is transferred from the plate to the paper.

Drypoint

Using a copper plate, the image is scratched into the plate with a scribe (sharp tool). This creates a burr of metal thrown up by the point of the tool that traps ink.
Next I ink the plate and run it through the press.
Then paint over the oil based ink with acrylic paint, press again.
Repeat inking and painting process.