|
|
|
|
Sandra's Process
for Itaglio or Copper Plate
Etchings |
|
|
"I
love to transfer my drawings onto copper pates for etching.
Each copper plate is prepared with a soft ground, usually
beeswax, prior to transferring my drawing. I draw my image
into the soft ground knowing that the image will print as
reverse or mirror image. Once the image is complete, the plate
is then covered on the back with a protective coating and
placed in an acid bath. The period of time in the bath varies
to produce the depth of the etch required for the boldness of
line I wish to create. Multiple etchings of each plate are
required for different line quality, width and depth in
various areas of my illustrations.
The plate must be rinsed and cleaned after etching. I then ink
and hand wipe the plate until I am satisfied that the plate
will produce the image. The inked plate is placed on the press
bed. Special, archival etching paper is soaked in water and
blotted prior to placement in the press. Both the plate and
the paper are covered with felt blankets to protect them as
they are rolled through the press to transfer the image onto
the paper. At this point the basic image is in place. This
process will be repeated many times as I develop the plate.
When I am satisfied, the process of printing the edition can
begin. Each print is hand inked and run through the press.
When the entire edition is finished, usually 50 prints or
less, I sign, title and number each individual print."
|
|
|
