How to Monoprint

What is monoprinting?

Just like all printmaking techniques, creating a mono print is all about experimentation. As the name suggests ‘Mono’ print very much refers to ‘one-offs’ rather than duplicates or multiples experienced through other printmaking methods. There are many ways to make a monoprint - the following two methods are a useful start to get you underway as a monoprint artist (when using a piece of acetate as your ground):

Additive -


This printing technique involves ADDING directly to the ink on the surface. Using a pencil (or brush) to draw directly onto the inked surface

Subtractive  -


This printing technique involves SUBTRACTING the ink by pushing the ink off the surface. You perform this technique by drawing on the BACK of the inked surface

Equipment

• Clear Acetate Sheets or any smooth and shiny surface
• Inking Tray - to contain the ink for rolling ink
• Rubber Roller - for applying ink to surfaces
• Artway Hand Baren - for applying pressure to back of prints
• Paper for prints - like our Studio 240gsm Mixed Media Paper
• A pencil to draw onto the sheet.

The Artway Lino Printing kit contains everything you would need for this technique plus more!

Printing Processes

ADDITIVE MONOPRINTING

• Ink the tray - apply a good layer of ink across the acetate surface

• Make your mark - using a blunt instrument (quill/pencil/stick) draw patterns, shapes and designs directly across the inked acetate surface. Textures can also be added by impressing materials (leaves, fabrics, net, lace etc.) to the surface before removing them to reveal their properties

REMEMBER to work quickly - the open time (before the ink starts to dry) is limited requiring a degree of haste

• Take a print - carefully place a piece of paper on top of your acetate sheet and, using the hand baren, apply consistent pressure to the back of the print. Work in a circular motion from the middle of the paper outwards for best results. Peel away the paper to reveal your print.

• Re-ink and repeat the process - experiment with other found materials to see what happens

SUBTRACTIVE MONOPRINTING

• Ink the tray - apply a good layer of ink across the acetate surface

• Cover the acetate with your paper - with an implement of your choosing (pencil/pen/finger etc.) apply a design to the back of the paper - where you draw will imprint from one surface to the other. REMEMBER not to inadvertently add any pressure where it’s not required as this will also be transferred to the print

• Peel away the paper - pick up a corner of the paper and in one smooth motion peel away from the design taking care not to smudge or drag it as you go. Allow to dry

• Re-ink and repeat the process - try other drawing materials to see what difference they make

TIP - most non-absorbent flat/flatish surfaces will work as the ground for monoprinting (glass, tabletops, plastic bags etc.) - the only restriction is then the size of paper you use!

Now that you have mastered monotype printing, why don't you try out other relief printing techniques. You can follow along with our instructions on lino printing or how to make a collagraph.