Printing tree rings/logs...

[fotodad]

I am a capital 'B' beginner when it comes to printing. So I apologize if my questions/comments make your eyes roll.

After a trip out East I learned about gyotaku printing. I wanted to try it myself and began researching methods and materials. While doing this research I came across another artistic printing style: printing tree rings. So now I want to learn how to do this as well.

Since trees are far more available than fish where I live, I've actually done a few tree-ring prints. They turned out okay, but the ink I was using dried too quickly (applied to a pretty big slab of wood) so the ink coverage on the paper wasn't the best.

I'm wondering if anyone else has tried this type of printing. If you have, please describe your process, materials and level of success.

I've been using a water-based ink and standard sketch paper (60lb) purchased at Hobby Lobby. I'm going to try a rice paper, but I'd like to use a different, slower drying ink. Any suggestions?

Thank you!
Love the forum!

[leauxra]

That sounds like a lot of fun!

I have had a lot better results and a much longer dry time when I use oil based inks instead of the water soluble type. My current favorite is Charbonnel Aqua Eash etching inks for relief printing - it is relatively easy to clean and it stays wet much longer. It also will give a cleaner, more accurate print with richer colors.

I hope this helps!

[lensman]

For inks that stay open a VERY long time, try Akua Intaglio inks. On non-absorbent surfaces such as glass or plastic they will stay open virtually forever (no kidding). Even on something like trees I think you'll find you have a long working time. Clean up is with water and a little dish soap.