2016 - Steamroller Printmaking!
Steamroller Printmaking!
I had wanted to participate in a steamroller printmaking from the first time I'd heard of it. What an exciting opportunity to do something out of the ordinary, especially after focusing on mini-carvings for so long. I didn't really know what was involved, but decided to dive in.
I wasn't sure how to get the image onto the wood, so I ended up printing it out on several sheets of paper and making a huge stencil. I then cut into the wood to mark the image through the paper.
It takes much longer than you realize to carve into the wood, and I was using MDF, which is even harder to carve (I have since learned that there is a specific type that is used for this, which carves better and doesn't require constant sharpening of one's tools).
Inking the matrix (carved board).
Steamroller printmaking is a team effort—even inking the matrix is best done with two people, and laying the material down for the steamroller takes around 6 people with CLEAN HANDS.
My steamroller print being created with the help of the printmaking community at CPC.
After being steamrolled, the print has to be moved (by clean hands) someplace to dry for a couple of days. It is a little difficult to part with your art after being so excited by the outcome, but the ink is oil-based and needs time. I learned a great deal and enjoyed the community around this event.
My print on white fabric, and an especially Halloween-ie one on orange fabric.
Related:
Cara Dailey
