Selecting the ideal printing paper is crucial for the success of your hand block printing projects, whether you’re working with linocuts, woodcuts, or rubber blocks. Unlike choosing inks, where recommendations can be fairly straightforward, paper selection is more nuanced due to the vast array of types available, influenced by regional availability and personal preferences. There isn’t a single “perfect” paper, but understanding key characteristics will guide you in making the best choice for your hand printing endeavors. This guide will explore essential factors to consider and offer specific paper suggestions to elevate your printmaking.
Understanding Paper Weight: GSM
When evaluating Printing Papers, you’ll frequently encounter the term “GSM,” which stands for grams per square meter. This metric indicates paper weight; a higher GSM value signifies a heavier paper. For hand printing, as opposed to using a printing press, it’s generally advisable to opt for light to medium-weight printing papers. A range of 30-120 GSM is often suitable, although this isn’t a strict rule. Heavier papers, such as Stonehenge (250 GSM) or Rives BFK (250 GSM), while excellent for press printing, can be less ideal for hand application due to the increased effort required to transfer the ink effectively.
To provide a practical comparison, standard inkjet printer paper typically weighs around 75 GSM, offering a tangible reference point for understanding paper weight in relation to printing papers.
The Importance of Paper Acidity for Print Longevity
For prints intended to last, selecting acid-free printing papers is paramount. Acid-free paper ensures the longevity and archival quality of your artwork, preventing deterioration over time. Papers described as “acid-free” or “neutral pH” have undergone processes to remove or neutralize acids that can cause paper to yellow and become brittle. Understanding terms like “acid-free,” “neutral pH,” and “sizing,” as detailed in paper glossaries from resources like Legion Paper, is beneficial for making informed decisions about the archival properties of your printing papers.
Paper Color in Printing: Neutral Tones
In the realm of printing papers, neutral colors, ranging from pure white to warm tan, are frequently chosen for their versatility and ability to showcase a wide spectrum of ink colors. However, it’s worth noting that “white” can vary significantly between different printing papers. Some papers possess a stark, bright white, while others lean towards a softer, off-white tone. Considering the subtle nuances in paper color is important to ensure it complements your intended print aesthetic.
Optimizing Paper Size for Your Printing Projects
Printing papers are available in a diverse array of sizes, sold both in individual sheets and pads. Selecting a paper size that appropriately matches your print dimensions is a practical consideration to minimize paper waste and maximize efficiency. Certain paper sizes can be less practical for standard print formats, leading to unnecessary trimming and material loss. Choosing paper sizes that align with your typical print sizes streamlines your workflow and conserves your printing paper supply.
Exploring Paper Texture for Hand Printing
The texture of printing papers varies considerably, from exceptionally smooth surfaces to papers with a pronounced, handmade texture. Generally, smoother, lighter-weight printing papers tend to yield crisper, more consistent prints with less manual pressure compared to rougher, heavier papers. This is particularly relevant in hand printing, where even pressure distribution is key to achieving a clean and detailed image transfer. The choice between smooth and textured printing papers ultimately depends on the desired aesthetic of your print and the level of detail you aim to achieve.
In conclusion, selecting the right printing papers for hand block printing involves considering several key factors: weight (GSM), acidity, color, size, and texture. By understanding these characteristics and how they impact your printing process and final results, you can confidently choose papers that enhance your artistic vision and ensure the longevity of your hand-printed creations. Experimentation with different types of printing papers is encouraged to discover your personal preferences and the papers that best suit your unique printing style and projects.
