About

We'll use a light-sensitive metal plate, create an image using either a printed image or a drawing, transfer the image using a laser printer to transparent film, expose the plate to light, and then print our images onto paper using the etching press and oil-based inks.

A Solarplate is a light-sensitized, steel-backed polymer material used by artists as an alternative to hazardous printing techniques. It's a simple approach that is safer and faster than traditional etching, and does not use grounds, acids, or solvents. The plate is exposed to UV light (i.e., the sun) and developed with ordinary tap water. Water dissolves the unexposed portions of the plate.

This five-hour workshop will cover all aspects of intaglio or incised printing, including how to properly condition and ink your plate, dampen paper, wipe the plate, and calibrate the press for beautiful printed imagery.

Details

• Skill level: Beginner.
• You're encouraged to bring a 6-inch by 8-inch black-and-white design to class. This can be a sketch or a printed image. Note that the Solarplate might be slightly smaller than 6 inches by 8 inches. 
• Bring a sack lunch for our short break. BARN has a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level. 

Details

A $30 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers everything you'll need:

• One 6-inch by 8-inch Solarplate per student.
• Transparent film for the laser printer.
• Oil-based black ink. 
• Printmaking paper.
• Pencils and scratch paper for creating an image.
• Ink knives for conditioning and mixing ink.
• Tarlatan for wiping the plate.
• Aprons.

Project

You'll print several copies of the same image on paper using black oil-based ink and Solarplates.

Class Policies

Ages 14 and up are welcome.