Category: Letterpress for beginners
Later topic: Value of 8x12 Showcard Press
Earlier topic: 1st Press

C & P Ink

I have a ton of oil-based etching ink already in my studio. Is it possible to get by with this ink to print linoleum and woodcuts with my Chandler and Price letterpress? (Rather than buying something like Van Son specifically manufactured for letterpress printing.)

Thanks,
Sage

Thanks,
Sage

Log in to reply   2 replies so far

  • jim jereb
  • on 8 Feb 15 (17:21)
  • Updated 8 Feb 15 (17:22)

Hi Sage,

Printmakers have used many kinds of ink for printing relief images (lino and wood) including litho and etch inks. Some of your choice would depend on the kind of image: fine line detail printed with etching ink might easily fill in, as etching ink is somewhat soft and short compared to inks used for relief (including letterpress). If you are printing solids and coarser works, then etching ink will work fine, just watch out for over-inking the image. Especially if you are running larger editions. Over-inking creeps up on you, normally not showing until after ten prints or so. (unless you are applying the ink as though frosting a cupcake).

I have known some artists who use artist’s oil based paint (for works on canvas, etc.) with good luck. Like many things, if you can get the results you want then the material is right for you!

Jim

Thanks, Jim. That’s very helpful!