Collagraphs

Collagraph

A Collagraph print is created using a collage printmaking technique.

The collagraph plate is printed the same way as an etching plate, but the process also includes the basic principle of relief printing. A collagraph can be printed either as intaglio or relief.

The term collagraph refer to a collage board , I use mountboard, where the materials are assembled on a flat base or plate (matrix) to form a relief block with different surface levels and textures.

Collagraph plates are created by sticking and gluing materials like textured paper or fabric onto the plate and then coated with varnish or acrylic medium afterwards to protect the materials.

The plate can be made from wood or cardboard and is built up using different materials. 

The Collgraph printing Process:

Many artists prefer to use wood plates, about 4-6 mm thick, as they are easier to work with and do not bend as easily as cardboard plates. Wood plates are more solid and also last longer than cardboard. However, any base can be used, from cardboard to acetate; as long as it is not too thick and can have a variety of materials glued onto it.

Note: The collage should not be too thick and the materials should not contain any sharp edges as this might ruin both the paper and the press.

Collagraphs printmaking can be a very interesting way of working. This is because of the many different effects that can be created and the great variation in texture you can get from using different materials.

You can use paint, glue, leaves, fabric and almost anything with texture that are flat enough to not rip the paper when you print it.

The materials you apply to the plate will determine the tone and strengths of the ink, and will also give you a variation of textures.

Absorbent materials might have to be inked up and printed a couple of times before the firm impression is fully visable.

Seal the collagraph either with four layers of PVA or  one layer of varnish which will dry quickly.