printmaking guides & manuals

what is an original print?

Glasgow Print Studio defines an original print as

“an image conceived as a print and executed solely in one or more of the various print media”

An original print is a work of art which is produced in multiples. Unlike a drawing or painting, the image is not drawn directly onto paper. An artist uses an indirect transfer process by creating a matrix. This matrix can be made from a wooden panel or sheet of lino, acrylic (perspex), glass or metal. Tools are used to create different marks on the matrix, ink is applied and pressure from a printing press transfers the image to the paper. The ‘impression’ can be repeated by re-inking the matrix.

In this way, an edition can be created in which each print is identical and is identified by a number which looks like a fraction. The top number refers to that particular print and the bottom number states the total number of prints in the edition. For example, ‘1/50’ written on a print indicates the first out of a total of 50 printed.

When a print is editioned, the artist is bound by law not to exceed, extend or re-edition that same image. Once the full edition has been made, the printing matrices (plates or blocks used to print the image) are usually destroyed or defaced so no more prints can be made.

etching handbook

Glasgow Print Studio has produced this printmaking handbook as a learning and reference resource for students and experienced printmakers. The handbook provides a general introduction to the Glasgow Print Studio’s working practices and comprehensive, in-depth information relating to key printing techniques.

We welcome the downloading and distribution of these handbooks but please remember that they are protected by copyright and should not be used for commercial purposes. Click image below to download.

screenprinting handbook

Glasgow Print Studio has produced this printmaking handbook as a learning and reference resource for students and experienced printmakers. The handbook provides a general introduction to the Glasgow Print Studio’s working practices and comprehensive, in-depth information relating to key printing techniques.

We welcome the downloading and distribution of these handbooks but please remember that they are protected by copyright and should not be used for commercial purposes. Click image below to download.

relief printing handbook

Glasgow Print Studio has produced this printmaking handbook as a learning and reference resource for students and experienced printmakers. The handbook provides a general introduction to the Glasgow Print Studio’s working practices and comprehensive, in-depth information relating to key printing techniques.

We welcome the downloading and distribution of these handbooks but please remember that they are protected by copyright and should not be used for commercial purposes. Click image below to download.