Trace Monotype Print
In the last post, I mentioned that I’m working on a new printmaking demo video of a trace monotype.
The trace monotype print demo is published now, and I hope you find the method inspiring enough to give it a try.
After the printmaking ink was dry – you’ll see a sequence where I added layers of watercolor and pastel to the print. My hope is that by demonstrating added layers of color, you’ll be inspired to make one too.
Even if You Can’t Draw
Trace monotype is a great printmaking process, because the version in this demo particular (they vary) doesn’t require a press or lots of tools (there is no carving whatsoever). And you can create a monotype print in your kitchen, or in a classroom.
If you can’t even draw a stick figure, this is a very accessible printmaking method! The linework is traced, so you can “draw” your dog by tracing from a printed cell phone photo, or you can create a mash-up of different elements – similar to what I’ve done in this demo. (I traced from a photo of a bathroom window, and then overlaid another photo of friends at a dinner to create a new, imagined event, in a pretend room. ) #howtohavefun The video tutorial is linked below.
Printmaking Resources
If you decide to give this process a go (oh, do it, do it, do it!), I’ve listed supplies and links below. And there are links sprinkled throughout this post for books that might be helpful, as well as other posts on the subject.
The video associated with this post is one of three trace monotype tutorials on my youtube channel to get you started.
You can leave questions in the comments under each video window on youtube, or leave them here on this post (below). Mostly, I hope you give it a go and just have fun!
If you don’t see the video window above, you can watch it directly on youtube here. All the supplies are listed below with links to learn more about them and source the materials online.
Thanks for visiting and I’ll see you in the next post!
Belinda
P.S You can subscribe to get each art post as soon as it’s published via email here.
Printmaking Supplies
Monotype Transfer Drawing Print Supply List
Here are the basic supplies you'll need to create a monotype transfer drawing print without a press. These versatile prints can be left as standalone original works of art, or you can add color with all sorts of pigments like watercolors, gouache, colored pencils, pastels and wax crayons.
Caligo Safe Wash Etching Ink
This ink looks and feels and prints similar to traditional oil-based etching ink, but it washes up with soap and water. Solvents aren't necessary. The ink stays wet on the brayer and roll-out slab for a good, long time. Note: Don't use watercolor paper with sizing in it, as that will block absorption and slow the ink drying time. See paper recommendations in this list.
Inking Plate
Four 12x12 Clear Acrylic Sheets
These shiny, clear sheets of plastic are *perfect* for rolling out ink on all your printmaking projects. If you're printing in multiple colors, you can roll for colors - one per sheet - or 8 colors if you use the right and left sides of each sheet. You can also use these to print dark field and light field monotypes. The bonus for monotype prints is that the plates are totally clear, so you can trace your image in printmaking inks for better accuracy.
Printmaking Paper
This is the paper I printed my monotype transfer drawing on, and it works beautifully for both allowing the printmaking ink to dry, and for painting with watercolor afterward.
Rubber Gloves
Whenever you're working with pigments, it's wise to wear protection to keep the inks from getting on your skin. The inks I've recommended here are water wash up, but that doesn't mean they're non-toxic. Repeated exposure to paint, inks and modifiers are best done with a good barrier to protect the container we'll be cruising around in all of our lives. When handling ink, wear gloves.
Watercolors
Here is a good starter set for watercolors if you're not experienced with painting your printmaking projects. You'll be able to mix all sorts of new colors from these tubes of basic hues.
Watercolor Brushes
This set will give you plenty of options to add color to your monotype transfer drawings in broad strokes or fine details.
Making Monotypes (book)
If you've never made a monotype print before, this book is a treasure trove of history, approaches, supplies, methods, and ideas. It's out of print, but you can get it used, or at your local library.
Art Quote
As to methods there may be a million and then some, but principles are few. The man who grasps principles can successfully select his own methods. The man who tries methods, ignoring principles, is sure to have trouble.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thank you for sharing your methods online. I tried a variation of the trace monotype and thought you might like to see. I posted it on my blog at http://art.blodget.net/2018/09/30/watercolor-and-trace-monotypes/ . I inked up a flexible plastic membrane plate and drew on the back of the plate to transfer the ink to a piece of watercolor paper. I like this method. It allows me to work directly without working in reverse, I can work onto heavy paper, and it doesn’t require a press.
Hi Jim, Yes, I love seeing what other printmakers are doing in the studio, so thanks for sharing! I just visited and left you a comment. Good job and keep going! 🙂 ??
Wonderful! I am printmaking student..cant wait to find the time to try your technique with my botanical prints..looks like a great way to relax..thanks for sharing
Love this video ……can’t wait to try this. Thanks Belinda!
Hi Marilyn! Be sure to share the results somewhere so we can cheer you on!