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Drypoint Printmaking

drypoint etching

The drypoint printmaking process is an intaglio etching technique. The process uses an drypoint acrylic plate on which I scratch an image using a sharp tool. Varying pressure is applied depending on whether I need lines to be thick or very fine.

drypoint tracing

Because the acetate is transparent it is also possible to trace an image directly through it. This can be useful on some of my printmaking workshops as it means that students don’t have to have prior artistic experience. They can use this technique as they can simply trace reference material.

inking up a drypoint plate

Ink is then applied to the plate using a roller and then carefully rubbed off using a clother in gentle circular motion. Ink will remain in the areas where I have scratched the plate. More ink will remain the deeper the scratches. I can also leave ink intentionally on other areas of the plate to create a cloudy / moody atmosphere around my subject matter.

drypoint etching press

Finally the inked plate is placed on my etching place ink side up. A piece of paper is placed on top of it. I then roll my press across it to apply firm even pressure. Then I roll the press back and remove the paper. I will see a completed image like this one here which a student produced using drypoint printmaking on one of my printmaking workshops.

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