Here are the results of the previously mentioned print.
In addition to the stamp patterning, I’ve made an effort to have the non-image area remain completely clean. Sometimes I like to allow some atmospheric cut wood texture to print, but sometimes it just looks messy. I have started cutting blocks out with a jig saw to address this issue. I first got the idea by seeing pictures of Bill Fick printing his mangled floating heads at http://evilprints.com/. Then I saw the couple from Tugboat Printshop do a demo on youtube. At that point, it finally sank in and I started to cut my blocks out too. A band saw would be better than a jig saw, but I’m not sure I can justify getting a bandsaw for that single purpose.
The other thing that is helping me print cleaner these days is remembering to spray laquer my blocks before inking so I can simply wipe away and stray ink with a paper towel. Not exactly rocket science, but it wasn’t obvious to me.
3 Comments
I spoke too soon on the previous post — you already posted the finish! Looks great. Interesting to hear about cutting away parts of the block for a cleaner impression. I’m a clean freak, too.
What spray lacquer do you use to coat your blocks? Do you spray after you have finished carving? Are there any openings in your workshop on 1/29/11?
I have used spray lacquer, but now I use Bullseye shellac after cutting. I use the spray version if time is a factor, but prefer to slather it on from the 1 gallon bucket – that way it really soaks in and strengthens the block. I also sand it smooth once the shellac is dry. There should still be some openings in the workshop. You can register online here. Hope to see you there!