Starting a Print

For this example of monoprinting-you'll need a roller. Try to use one that is close to width that you wish your print to be, then there is less rolling to do!
I prefer to use oil-based inks because of the quality and you can work with them for longer periods before they begin to dry up. Water-based ones can be used, but you may find that they tend to dry up very quickly so add an extender to the ink.

Equipment you may need for drawing the image-pens, pencils, brushes etc.. In addition you will need: ink, palette knife, a flat surface to work on-glass or a perspex sheet is good, a selection of paper to experiment with-I like using newsprint as it's so responsive to pressure, but it does discolour and go brittle in daylight over time, and for cleaning-up rags and white spirit/oil for oil-based inks or water for water-based inks.

Place a small amount of ink on the on glass or perspex sheet. Use the palette knife to loosen it up. If using oil-based inks you can add driers/extenders at this stage.

Apply a length of ink to the surface, the same width as the roller and start to roll out the ink. Remember to keep lifting the roller to spread the ink over your required area. 

 

Changing direction will help you achieve a even coating. You only need a very thin layer of ink for monoprinting. If the ink is too thick, you can roll out another area, without charging your roller.

Carefully place your paper over the inked surface. If the ink is thin enough you will only get an ink mark where you apply pressure.

You are now ready to draw your image on the back of your paper. Remember that your image will be back to front-so for example, if you are using text, you will need to write it backwards if you want it to be correct on the actual print.