Stamp Pattern Finished and Printing Clean

Isabel2 finished 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.

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3 Comments

  1. Posted February 21, 2008 at 8:21 am | Permalink

    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.

  2. Posted January 16, 2011 at 7:41 pm | Permalink

    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?

  3. admin
    Posted January 17, 2011 at 8:47 am | Permalink

    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!

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