You don’t need a press to create monotypes, all you need is a gelli plate, some water based Akua printmaking inks, and printmaking paper!
- Watch the 1 min. short (Radish monotype)
- Watch the 17 min. version (full tutorial)
- Watch the 1 min. short (Monotype workshop)
- Watch the 40 second short (Framing a monotype)
Prof Lieu demonstrates every step of the process, showing wiping techniques, brush techniques, registration, and the printing process to create a monochromatic monotype.
Demo led by Art Prof Clara Lieu and Guest Teaching Artist Owen Rival.
Video Walkthrough
- Monotypes are prints that can only be printed once.
- Monotypes are contrary to the definition of printmaking, which is about images that can be reproduced.
- The convenience of creating monotypes without a press.
- Gel printing plates allow you to print in a home studio.
- Akua intaglio inks are water based.
- Water based printmaking ink vs. oil based printmaking ink.
- Using a light board to see the image more clearly while working.
- Wipe away technique: rolling the entire gel plate with ink first.
- Highlights are wiped away with a cotton rag.
- Bristle brushes can create texture and brush techniques.
- Creating a registration sheet for getting accurate printing.
- Cleaning up gel plates using baby wipes.
- Creating “ghost” prints.

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