Introduction

Part 1: Collagraphs

I make my collagraphs by using a piece of mountboard, I then draw into it and add textures, with glue and grit, called cabourundum. Collagraphs can be developed using  simple  cut lines or by adding materials that can create textures when printed .The materials that I have chosen to use (mountboard, parcel tape, and carborundum grit), these will help to create a tonal image when  printed. Collagraphs can be made quickly and plates can be changed and adapted.  It’s an experimental technique – the best results come from practicing, playing and enjoying the process.

Part 2: Drawing the plate

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Use a pencil and draw an image directly onto mountboard to start a collagraph.

Part 3: Cutting the plate

Use sharp scalpel with  new blade and cut directly into the plate. Experiment cutting into the top layer of the plate (mountboard) by making marks and creating patterns. 

Part 4: Adding carborundum

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Adding carborndum to a plate will help create a dark textured tone when the plate is printed . Place a sheet of paper under your plate. Paint PVA glue to a chosen section of the plate and sprinkle carborundum over it.

Part 5: Adding parcel tape

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Adding Parcel tape to a plate creates lighter areas and textures withing a finished image.

Part 6: Drawing with a knife

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Use the scalpel to draw lines and add texture .

Part 7: Preparing paper

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Using a clean sponge and clean water (not too wet) damp the paper and place it into a plastic bag. Leave the paper there whilst inking the plate

Part 8: Inking the plate 

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I used etching ink mixed with etching  extender to ink my plate and I applied the mix using cut sections of mountboard.

Part 9: Wiping the plate 

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I remove the ink using a rag or scrim by just taking off the shine and making sure that all the ink goes into the groves.

I take off any excess ink with news print or news paper. The amount of ink that is removed from a plate is a personal choice.

Part 11: Printing the plate

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Prepare the press with tissue paper for the bottom and top of the plate and then print the plate .