Frequently Asked QuestionsA: Etchings are drawn on a piece of metal that has been covered with a soft, acid resistant coating. The drawing instrument scratches through the coating and exposes the underlying metal. I use something called an Edinborough Etch (ferric chloride based) solution to chemically etch the exposed metal. This is done by submerging the metal plate in the solution so that the liquid seeps into the lines and eats away the metal. After about an hour, the metal is cleaned and ink is rubbed into the etched lines and the surface ink is buffed away. Only the ink that remains in the etched lines will print. The inked "plate" is set on a etching press bed and covered with damp paper and 3 layers of wool felts. The artist "pulls" the print by cranking this package under a steel roller. When the felts and the paper are pulled back, the image will have left an impression (and a depression where the metal was) on the paper. This is the first time the artist gets to see the image. It is called the first state. If it is unacceptable (an it usually is) the plate is cleaned, the coating is reapplied and the desired adjustments are made to the drawing. The process can be repeated as often as necessary until the artist is happy with the end results.
A: No. When etching, the artist draws into a soft, acid-resistant coating. and uses chemicals to get the image into the metal. With engraving, the image is carved directly into the surface of the metal. Sometimes engraving techniques are used in combination with etching..
A: Not always, though etching does require a press and that's the most expensive piece of equipment. For that reason printmakers often form cooperatives, or audit classes at a college so they can use the equipment until they get their own. Several printmaking techniques don't need a press at all and that cuts the cost significantly, or you can build your own if you have the skills.
A: Yes, I take the non-toxic approach to printmaking seriously and have private classes for etching and photopolymer printmaking in my studio. Classes are also available once or twice a year at John Campbell Folkschool in North Carolina and at my studio in Dayton, Tennessee.
Q: Where can I go to buy printmaking supplies?