Printmaking Techniques: #3 dry point on illustrati

I thought it would be fun to do some technique challenges! I've actually learned most printmaking techniques (except litho) so I'll be your host!

1 card for each of 3 partners (3 in total) Since its not too hard to make an extra print once you've got everything set up I've made this for three partners.

This should be printed on heavyweight paper, in the standard 3.5x2.5 ATC size.

This is a "how to" challenge, so Dry Point etching on illustration board only! You must make your own plate.

This is something I learned this spring. It's super easy too! You take a piece of illustration board and spray on a couple coats of clear varnish, or paint on a couple coats of lacquer. Let it dry completely (I'd give it 24 hours to be safe.) Then you can use a dry point tool, or the head of a nail to scratch your design into the board.

If you want it to have some plate tone, you can get some cool textures by using a brush to apply the lacquer.

If you don't have an etching press someone told me they were using a pasta machine. It seems plausible! I found this reference:

http://amandawatson-will.blogspot.com/2009/05/testing-limitations-of-pasta-machine-as.html

You may use any ink you choose. I'm loving the Akua Intaglio water-based inks.

Rating of 4.9+, no unexplained 3s or 1s Providing links to your work is encouraged! I will be checking profiles before the swap begins.

And no other printmaking techniques should be used. Though you may use a chine collé for your background if you'd like. Chine collé is a thin paper, you adhere during printing. After you have inked your plate, place a piece of paper-I like to use a japanese paper like mulberry-on top of your inked plate, and dust it lightly with flour. Then lay your dampened paper on top of the plate and paper and run through your press. I use a double layer of panty hose, fill it with flour, and use that to shake out an even coat of the flour. In place of flour there's this nice stuff called Wondra, that you can find in the grocery store. It's used to make very smooth gravy. (it's also great for paste paper too!)

Please let me know if you have any questions!