One difference
between the Japanese tradition of woodblock relief printing and the woodblock printing
of the Western cultures is the type of ink used. Each ink system has its own
physical properties, which help define the personality of the printing
aesthetic. Each ink system possesses its own performance properties, with
unique advantages and disadvantages.
Video about inking the block for relief printing
printing, water based inks are typically used. These inks are similar to water
colors. The transparency of these inks feature delicate pastel shades and allow
for the creation of subtle gradations of color, which characterize Japanese
prints. Use of these inks to create these effects, requires specialized brushes
and special printing skills.
using water based inks in relief printing is that they dry much faster than oil
based inks used by artists in the West. Drying is especially fast when the
weather is hot and dry. On the other hand, when temperatures are very color, some
water based inks may not wet out the surface of the woodblock properly.
Western art are traditionally oil based. They provide many benefits not
available to the printer using water based inks. Drying time for oil based ink,
for example, is extended. In fact, depending on your shop environment, drying
may take days. The pigments used in these inks are much more durable. Colors
are richer and more vibrant. Oil based inks for relief printing also provide better coverage.
not without their disadvantages. These inks can contain chemicals, such as
heavy metals, that may be hazardous. Prolonged skin contact with solvents may
result in dermatitis. Inhalation of solvents during clean up may also be
harmful. Use of solvents may also pose a
fire hazard if saturated rags are not disposed of properly.
with oil based inks, read the technical literature and Safety Data Sheets
provided by the manufacturer.
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