Project Due Date: Name_______________________

Drypoint Etching Project

Drypoint is an intaglio style print method of lines scratched directly into plexiglass.
Hatching, cross-hatching and sanding create the values. This method offers a low
cost, very approachable, safer alternative to some other printing methods. This
Draw Paint Print class will be exploring ideas of surrealism. Please refer to the
surrealism guidelines that are accompany this technical drypoint technique process
handout.

Project Requirement: 5 good quality prints. Images needs to show clean

craftsmanship, value range, and appropriate line work.

You should rely upon your eyes to determine whether a print is good. Look
closely at the print to determine whether there are any inclusions, or
imperfections in the paper. Check for unintentional ink smears or scuffs.
Check the plate margins for a good clean “lift” - that is, no smearing around
the edges of the image. If possible, compare two or three copies of the same
print, again looking for clean edges, smears, and a clear image. Just like in our
other drawings, you should have a full range of values. The ink should be
consistent. Your inking should not be patchy, spotty, gloppy, or weak.

A finished print MUST be signed correctly to receive credit for it.

Close to the bottom of the image you will sign in PENCIL:
 Placement of print should be centered and level on paper, with at least ½ inch
border.

Etching plexiglass tips:

 Plexiglass must have its edges beveled so that it does not cut the paper in the
printing press
 Work with a piece of black paper close by so you can see the lines you are
creating. Lines created are white (later to be filled with ink)
 Remember your print will be a mirror image (backwards) of your original.
(Make sure adjustments are made for lettering)
 It will be necessary to make an artist proof, and rework plate if needed. Your
plate can offer no more than 10 to 15 images before
breaking down. Plates can be reworked (scratched) to create larger additions if
needed.
 Design of print and creation of printing plate will be counted as sketchbook
assignments. This means to stay on time with the assignment, you will be
working on the project outside of class. Budget at least three days working
time for pulling your prints in the last week and a half of class.
 Take care of your plexiglass, it scratches easily. Wrap it up when/ if you are
traveling with it.

Printing Prep List:

Lay out newspaper
Put water in white tray
Cut your paper:
Paper has a front (smooth) and back (ridged).
Plan to have extra space for your bottom border
Don’t waste paper – It’s expensive!
Cut scrap cardstock
Ink (soy and oil based)
Ink gloves on
Work with a partner. It is much easier to keep paper

Ready to print >

 Drypoint Etching (con’t)

O.K. ready!
 Use about a half-teaspoon of ink. Spread with card into all etched areas.

 Take clean side of card and pull off extra ink.

 Make one cleaner swipe with new board.

 (Partner) Start soaking paper. (About two minutes.)

 Buff lightly and circularly (Be careful, you can buff out your design!).

 Buff out unwanted cloudy areas. Keep it clean …edges too.

 Partner meanwhile will dry off paper with heavy felt.

 Proceed to printing press. (First few prints with teacher)

 Make sure plate is supported

 Fold back heavy felt

 Adjust pressure by adding paper

 Register paper on top of print block (bottom border larger)

 Crank print through press

 Make sure felt is not getting caught

 Carefully, lift print off, and put on dry rack

 Title, #, and sign print 

 Oh yes, make sure you clean up well 