In a single pull, while the paint is wet,
create an abstract art monotype.
Just let your imagination go!
Gel Plate • Heavy Print Paper
Acrylic Paint • Brayer/Roller
Silicone Paint Mover
Watch the Demo
ENHANCE YOUR MONOTYPE
Create your monotype in 3 pulls,
each while the paint is wet, and then use it
as background. In this example,
the monotype is used as a background
for a floral painting with collage elements.
Monotypes can be used in many
applications, in journals, as collage
papers, accordion books, etc.
Gel Plate • Heavy Print Paper • Stencils Acrylic Paint Brayer/Roller • Collage Paper
Paint Brushes & Silicone Stylus
Watch the Demo
GHOST MONOTYPES
A ghost image is the remainder paint left on
the plate after the first print is pulled.
A second pull, the ghost image, can be
made from the remainder, and is often
lighter than the first.
Observe how a "ghost" image is
created in two pulls in these demos.
Demo #1 Uses Natural Elements.
Demo #2 Uses a Stencil
Gel Plate • Heavy Print Paper • Tape
Mask (natural elements) • Stencil
Acrylic Paint • Brayer/Roller
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Watch Demo #1
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Getting Started with Hand-Pulled Monotypes
• MONOTYPE PRINTING
is a wonderful and versatile art form. It's a type of printmaking made by drawing or painting on a smooth, non-absorbent surface. The process is simple yet has the potential for great creativity and expression. Here's a basic outline of the steps you might follow for a monotype project using acrylic paints:
• Select Your Surface:
Traditionally, a plate made of glass, plexiglass, or metal is used for monotype printing because these materials do not absorb paint and allow for smooth transfer. Today, the very versatile Gel Plate is a popular choice.
Choose a surface that is sturdy and can be easily cleaned.
• Prepare Your Materials:
You will need acrylic paints, a variety of brushes or other painting tools, a roller or brayer if you wish to apply paint in an even layer, and paper for pulling your prints. You may also want rags or paper towels for wiping away paint and water for cleaning your brushes.
• Create Your Image:
Apply acrylic paint directly onto your plate. You can paint an image, create textures with brushes or other tools, or even work abstractly. Remember that the image will be reversed when printed, so plan accordingly if your composition is directional.
• Layering:
To build depth, you can work in layers. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. This can create interesting visual effects and textures. Alternatively, you can work wet-on-wet for different effects.
• Pulling the Print:
Once you are satisfied with your painted plate, carefully place a sheet of paper over the top. Use your hand or a barren (a tool used in printmaking to apply pressure) to press down on the paper, ensuring that the paint transfers from the plate to the paper. This is known as 'pulling the print'.
• Reveal:
Carefully peel the paper off the plate to reveal your monotype print. Each print is unique because the process does not allow for exact duplicates.
• Enhancements:
After your print has dried, you can go back into it with more paint, drawing materials, or even collage elements to add details or highlights.
• Cleaning Up:
Clean your plate with water and/or a suitable cleaner so that it's ready for your next project.
REMEMBER, MONOTYPE PRINTING
is often about experimentation and embracing the unexpected. Each print will be one-of-a-kind, and the variations between prints are part of what makes this process so special. Enjoy the creative journey!