Monoprinting

This is a form of printing dating back to the 1600’s.  It is a rewarding technique, which allows for experimentation and different results each time.

You will need 2 sheets of plastic either 2 pieces of acetate, a plastic page protector or A PLASTIC BAG.  Experiment with different types of plastic for different results.

Take a well-inked permanent dye inkpad i.e. Ancient Page, Adriondack or Memories.  We do not recommend the Staz-On pads as they are too quick drying.  Cover your work surface and open the plastic sleeve (or place down the 2 pieces of acetate).  Apply ink to one side of the plastic – tapping the inkpad directly on to the plastic until the plastic is covered.  Close the sleeve or place the second piece of acetate on the top.  Press down lightly with your fingertips to transfer the ink.  Open and close the sheets a number of times to trap air in between to add to the effect.

Now take 2 pieces of gloss card and place them in between the 2 plastic sheets – gloss side facing outwards.  Close the sheets and press down lightly to transfer the ink on to the card.

Repeat this process using the same acetate with 2 new pieces of gloss card.  Do not re-ink the plastic.  This will produce a fainter finish.  Leave the printed card aside for at least 30 minutes to dry.  If you stamp on to the card too early, the image will not be as crisp. 

Varying the Technique

The above deals with just on ink.  To layer the ink repeat the process using a different colour inkpad.  Place the printed gloss card in between the plastic and press the sheets down.  This will create a mix of colours.

To create another effect, heat both pieces of acetate with a heat gun.  Obviously if you are using plastic bags these may melt under the heat so take care.  The acetate will bend and cool.  When cool, ink one piece of the acetate – place both pieces of acetate together and press down gently.  Place two pieces of gloss card, again gloss side facing out, in the middle of acetate and press down.  The harder you press the darker the colour results. 

You nay also want to try sponging another colour of dye ink on to your printed card, or use the ink used for the printing.  This will give you another look entirely, which will look beautiful.

Try stamping on your finished card or use them as backing cards for other works.

Also try different mediums for this technique such as paint, Inkabilities and Marvy Metallics.  Add water, or even bleach to see what results you get.