Inking and re inking

In my last project I inked up a few dibs about the size of a cranberry, I’m not sure that was too much. I wonder how much ink to put on the disc for an average form?

Also
When the prints began to go light, how much ink do you use to refresh the requirement needed?

I realize ink amount is contingent on job size and were not talking exact measurements, but a few general tips on both questions would be of great help! Thanks!

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It is easier to ink too little and add more than to ink too much and have to take ink off.
My hearing is no longer good, but if yours is you can use this guide. When you just begin to hear the ink hiss on the disk and when you just begin to see some texture on the disk as the roller rolls up, you are at or close to the correct amount of ink. I call the texture velvet. If the sound is more of a deep squish rather than a light hiss, you have too much ink. Refresh the ink when the velvet and the hiss are less or go away. If it is a small form, it will not require much ink to refresh. If it is a large form or has heavy solids, more is required. It is a skill and judgement to be developed.

@ inky,
I’m familiar with the listening and texture method of the correct amount of ink from when I hand printed wood cuts, but for a proof press which roller would you look at to find that same texture that you would on the disk?
Possibly the oscillating roller?

danielheff
I cannot give you a good and specific answer. I am a platen press guy and my proof press is a humble Poco #0 that inks with a brayer.
I think you are on the right track in looking at the oscillator.