How An Etching Is Made
Printmaker Sam Guerin shows us the process of etching.
A Smooth Copper Plate
Printmaker Sam Guerin holds up a smooth copper plate that will be used to create an etching.
A Sharp Tool
The plate is covered in an acid-resistant ground, and a sharp tool, like the one in the picture, is used to scratch away an image. The plate is then submerged in acid or some other corrosive substance. The area that has been scratched away is etched into the plate by the acid.
Inking
Guerin uses a piece of cardboard to rub ink into the etched grooves of the plate.
What's A Tarleton?
A starched cheesecloth called a tarleton is used to wipe away the excess ink.
Ready To Print
This plate has been inked and wiped, and is ready to print.
To The Printing Press
The inked plate is laid on the bed of a printing press.
Add Paper
Paper is soaked and laid on top of the plate after the excess moisture has been removed.
Under Pressure
Once the paper is placed on top of the etched plate, it’s covered with blankets that help to evenly distribute the pressure.
Crank The Press
Guerin cranks the press to make the print.
A Mirror Image
Guerin lifts the blankets and removes the paper from the plate, revealing the finished print. The print is a mirror image of the etched plate.
A Finished Print
Learn more about printmaking at Visual Arts Center.