The terms “monotype” and “monoprint” are often used interchangeably, but they technically refer to different techniques.
A monotype is a unique print made from a plate with no permanent marks. Once the image is transferred to paper, there is nothing left on the plate to re-print from.
A monoprint is a single impression of an image made from a re-printable plate. This plate will have some sort of permanent marks that repeat each time a print is pulled. Re-using the plate can create multiple variations and assorted colors.
If there is one thing monotypes and monoprints have in common above all, it is providing the opportunity for the artist to work spontaneously and combine techniques: drawing, painting, and printmaking are incorporated to create these distinctive works.
Materials
• Yupo® synthetic paper (74lb, 100lb, or 144lb)
• Liquid watercolors
• Acetate, glass, or other non-absorbent surfaces
• Paintbrushes, color shapers, and other tools for making marks and texture
• Water
• Freezer paper or other protective cover for your work surface
• Paper towels
• Finishing spray
NOTES:
• Each technique in this section is demonstrated on 144lb Yupo® (original) synthetic paper.
• Liquid watercolors are very concentrated. You only need a drop or two on a palette or plate. A little goes a long way, especially when adding water to the paint.
Watercolor monotypes can be done with one color and minimal supplies. The materials used in the examples below are liquid black watercolor, water, tools for making marks and adding implied texture, a small brayer, a paintbrush, and a palette knife.
Traditionally, monotypes are created by drawing or painting on a glass or metal plate and transferring the image, usually after the media has dried, via hand or printing press to an absorbent surface like watercolor or printmaking paper (which is usually soaked in water before pulling the print). The use of non-porous substrates offers a modified approach for both the plate and the receiving paper. Acetate is a relatively inexpensive and easy-to-find substrate that can be used for simple monotype printmaking.
Another fun experiment: Fold the acetate while the media is still wet (or add more paint), and create a mirror image of your plate.
Can you use the same material as both plate and paper for printing a monotype? With Yupo synthetic paper, you can! The two projects below use synthetic paper as both the plate and the print. Add additional paint and embellishments for a more finished look.
Two of the most enjoyable aspects of creating watercolor monotypes are the spontaneity of the process and the unanticipated surprise of the results. The monotype can be further developed with embellishments, used as a background or mixed with other media to create another piece entirely. The direction you take is up to you. Experiment and have fun!