How I Make Monoprints

People often ask how I make my monoprints. As an artist, I cannot agree more with the maxim: a picture is worth a thousand words. So let's begin.

1. First I create a collagraph plate, made from masonite or something similar, with modeling paste to create texture, and seal it.

2. Then I rub lithography inks into the texture and laboriously remove it from the surface. The image below shows the plate half covered with ink.

3. I then top roll with additional color for depth, as these inks will mix together during printing.

4. At this time, I may add multiple rice papers for the Chine Colle technique.

5. Then I hand pull the image on an etching press. It's a labor of love!

6. After printing, I may choose to further enhance the image with oil pastel.

The pressure of the press embosses the paper. The inks in the texture create the line quality, depth and composition and the final product is a rich, complex piece that prompts people to ask, "How did you do that?"

Well, now you know.