Multi-Colour Printmaking

This is the first day since the 19 February that I've been able to use my wonderful (but heavy) Albion Press. (I had a bit of surgery and had to wait a while for healing to take place and to regain my strength) And what better than this life affirming, colourful project.

In 2011 I became involved with An Inventory for Al-Mutanabbi Street and it has remained close to my heart ever since. I have been looking at files for my submission to the project with a view to making a second edition, proceeds of which will be donated to Medecins sans Frontiers. I hope to have this ready for BABE 2013 (Bristol Book Arts Event) on 20-21 April.

And, I was recently reading Ama Bolton's book, also made for the project. 

I love the different coloured paper used throughout her book, and I took inspiration from this to print my new edition on multiple coloured sheets of paper.

The first few are muted . . .

. . . soon growing more confident, using raspberry reds and bold blues and greens. One hanging rack full.

I use masks to help with inking up, otherwise the plate requires way too much cleaning before pulling a print.

A plate on the press ready to go . . .

in various colours.

Two hanging racks full (44 sheets and counting - what a gloriously busy day I've had!)

The next stage will be letterpress, but that will have to wait until after the Easter break (boo-hoo).