What line behind the making of my prints?

It takes longer than you think. There are various stages:

Thinking Time

Sometimes many months, while I mull over an idea, make sketches and take photos. I’ve often woken in the middle of the night with the germ of a new idea and how I’ll make the plate to bring the idea to fruition. 

Plate Making

Once an idea is (part) ‘cooked’, I make a plate choosing materials that I hope will allow me to realise the image in my head.

A Proof Print

I ink up the plate for the first time in one colour. This print will tell me how the textures on the plate will print. It informs me on whether I need to make any adjustments and gives me information that helps me decide how and where to use the colour.

Printing For Real!

I choose a colour palette, apply them to the plate with brushes and pieces of card, try different inking techniques and make several prints. Many of the early version will not be of a sellable standard unless I’m very lucky.

Finally, A Good Print Emerges!

From there on, subsequent prints will (usually) be equally successful - the best bit is the element of serendipity. It’s a voyage of discovery, even with plates I’ve not printed for some time.