Lesson 7.2: Relief Printing

Introduction

In this lesson, students will explore the art of relief printing, a fundamental printmaking technique that has played a significant role in the development of visual arts. Our objectives for this lesson are to understand the principles of designing for relief, safely cutting a block, inking, printing on paper, registering multiple blocks or colors, and building an edition of consistent prints.

Learning Objectives

• Designing for relief and thinking in positive and negative shapes: Understand how to create designs that incorporate both light and dark areas effectively.
• Cutting a block safely with the correct tools: Learn about the tools used in relief printing and how to handle them safely.
• Inking, paper, and taking a clean print: Gain practical knowledge on how to apply ink and transfer images onto paper smoothly.
• Registration for multiple blocks or colors: Discover methods to align blocks accurately for multi-color prints.
• Building an edition of consistent prints: Develop an understanding of what an edition is and how to maintain consistency across prints.

Designing for Relief

When designing for relief printing, it is essential to think in terms of positive and negative spaces. In relief printing, the raised areas of the matrix (the block you carve into) will transfer ink onto the paper, while the recessed areas will not. This relationship is crucial to achieving a successful print.

Concept Explanation

• Positive space refers to the area that will be printed (raised part of the block), while negative space refers to the area that will remain uninked (cut away). For instance, if you design a tree, the parts of the tree that are raised will appear in the print, while the empty background will not.

Example

Consider a simple design of a sun and clouds. Designate the sun's outline and the fluffy cloud shapes as the positive spaces, while the background can be left as negative space. Here’s how it might look:

1. Sketch the Design:

• Start with a light pencil sketch of your design.
• Identify the elements that will be positive (e.g., the sun, tops of clouds).

1. Visualizing Positive and Negative:

1. Preparing the Block: Transfer your design onto the block, ensuring the positive spaces are clearly marked.

Cutting the Block Safely

Once your design is ready, you will need to cut it into a block, typically made of linoleum or wood, using specialized tools.

Tools and Safety

• Carving tools: These include V-gouges, U-gouges, and knives designed for linoleum or wood. Each tool will allow you to create different textures and lines.
• Cutting surface: Always use a cutting mat to protect your work surface and keep the tools sharp.
• Safety practices:
• Always cut away from your body.
• Use appropriate hand protection (such as carving gloves) for added safety.
• Make sure your workspace is organized to avoid accidents with tools.

Example Process

1. Selecting the Block: Choose a suitable linoleum block.
2. Transfer Design: Use carbon paper to transfer your design onto the block.
3. Cutting Steps:

• Start by cutting the outer edges of your positive design.
• Remove the negative space carefully, checking your depth regularly.

Common Misconceptions

• Misconception: You need to carve intricate designs for it to print well.
• Reality: Simple designs can be just as effective, especially for beginners. Focus on clarity and contrast.
• Misconception: Any knife can be used for cutting.
• Reality: Specialized tools ensure precision and safety when working with blocks.

Inking, Paper, and Taking a Clean Print

Once the block is cut, the next step involves inking and taking a print. This portion of the process requires precision and practice to ensure that the final print is clean and vibrant.

Inking the Block

• Use a brayer (roller) to spread ink evenly across the raised surfaces of the block. Ensure not to over-ink, which can lead to smudging.
• Ink Application Steps:

1. Squeeze a small amount of ink onto a glass or plastic slab.
2. Use the brayer to roll the ink until it reaches a velvety texture, ensuring even coverage without puddles.
3. Roll the brayer over the block evenly, ensuring every raised element is coated.

Choosing Paper

• Printmaking paper is specifically designed to absorb ink without tearing or smudging. Common choices include:
• Japanese rice paper
• Bristol board
• Specialty printmaking paper

Taking the Print

1. Positioning: Lay the paper carefully on top of the inked block, ensuring it is aligned correctly.
2. Pressing: Use a wooden spoon or a baren (a hand-held tool) to press down evenly across the paper.
3. Lifting: Carefully peel the paper away from the block to reveal the print.

Example

By following these steps, you can create your first print. A successful relief print should show clear contrasts between the printed areas and paper, with no excess ink on the edges.

Registration for Multiple Blocks or Colors

If you plan to create multi-colored prints, registration is essential. This ensures each block aligns perfectly to create a cohesive image.

Registration Techniques

• T-registration: Involves using a T-shaped guide to hold the paper still while you print.
• Multiple Block Alignment: Make registration marks on your paper and blocks, so you know where to align each subsequent prints.

Example Process

1. Prepare Registration Marks: Before inking, create marks on the corners of your paper that align with the blocks.
2. Print Each Color: Ink one block, print, and allow it to dry. Repeat with subsequent colors, aligning with your registration marks each time.
3. Resulting Image: The final print will reveal a vibrant, layered artwork showcasing all colors.

Building an Edition of Consistent Prints

A print edition is a series of prints that are identical or nearly identical. Understanding how to maintain consistency is crucial in relief printing.

Steps to Create an Edition

1. Preparation: Prepare to carve and ink enough blocks for the number of prints desired in the edition.
2. Inking Consistently: Use the same amount of ink and pressure for every print.
3. Maintaining a Clean Workspace: Keep your workspace organized to prevent contamination of colors and materials, ensuring uniformity in prints.
4. Numbering the Edition: Number the prints as you complete them (e.g., 1/10, 2/10), which also helps track their value.

Example of Editioning

If you create an edition of 10 prints, take care to:

• Keep the same pressure and ink application for every print to ensure each is identical in quality and appearance.
• Store prints flat and separate to avoid smudges during the drying process.

Conclusion

Relief printing is not only a basic printmaking technique; it is also a playful yet disciplined method that fosters both creativity and technical skill. By understanding the relationship between positive and negative space, using the right tools safely, mastering inking and printing processes, accurately registering for multi-color prints, and developing a consistent edition, students can express their artistic vision through this versatile medium. Remember, practice is vital, so take your time and experiment with different designs and colors to find your unique approach to relief printing.

Study Notes

• Relief printing uses both positive and negative spaces to create prints.
• Safety is key when cutting blocks; always cut away from yourself and use the correct tools.
• Inking requires proper technique to ensure clear prints.
• Registration techniques are essential for multi-color prints.
• An edition consists of a series of prints that are uniform in quality and design.