Letterpress Printing

Project 1

Monoprints

Description

Simply put, have fun and create twenty prints. The goal is to create a formal composition using the acrylic plate and various techniques we covered in class. Use this as a chance to make a few passes on the press and experiment with this new tool. Each print needs to be different in a deliberate way but should read as a series. Meaning it should be clear that your twenty go with each other, whether that is through color, position, technique, or other elements. The variation can be subtle but the changes need to be considered. Any way to make the prints unique while still considering the composition and formal elements of the print will work.

This is also an introduction to getting the press set up, printing on the press, and cleaning the press up when you are done. This will all be hand inked so clean up will be minimal but still needs to be done with care.

Requirements

• Method - Acrylic Plate
• Inking - Hand
• Paper - 12"x18" (Provided)
• Print Area - 10"x16"
• Color - 1+
• Passes - 1+
• Amount - 20

Things to Keep in Mind

• Experiment! Always better to go too far than not go far enough.
• This is a communal space so treat it as such.
• Each print is unique but goes together as a set
• Work intuitively, be curious, and create intentionally.

Objectives

• Practicing setting up and cleaning up the press
• Building technical skill while printing
• Starting a tool kit of techniques for printing
• Improving craft skills
• Thinking about a series
• Experimenting in color, technique, inking, etc.

Priority Print Weeks

• Group 1 – Week 3 (Feb 9)
• Group 2 – Week 4 (Feb 16)
• Group 3 – Week 5 (Feb 23)

Final Submission

• Turned in on time (3/2/26)
• Twenty physical prints
• Photographs of five best submitted on Canvas
• All other requirements met