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Getting Started/ TONING & TRANSFER & PROOFING METHODS:



***Remember you need to reverse your image.  Letters and numbers in particular need to be reversed when you cut them, so they will print correctly. If you can read it correctly on the block you won't be able to read it in the print.

Some transfer techniques require you to tone the block prior to transfer, while others you tone after the transfer. (See specifics below),

Transfer Methods
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1- Direct Drawing -(Tone block PRIOR to transfer). You can draw directly on the block with pencil, sharpie marker, sumi ink or thinned acrylic paint and then cut.  

2- Drawing/Tracing transfer methods: (Tone block PRIOR to transfer)- Hanshita, Graphite, direct drawing, carbon paper.
​These methods do NOT reverse your drawing.

3- Laser & inkjet transfer methods: (Tone block AFTER transfer)- Citra Solve, Citra Strip, Chartpac & Inkjet techniques
These methods WILL reverse your drawing to "right reading" for you.
Inkjet Transfer
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4- Laserprint Citrasolv method / using a press.
​(This method does NOT work with inkjet prints & I don't recommend beginner's hand burnish with this method).

Toning a block:
​You can use acrylic paint/ink or sharpie marker.  Toning allows you to more easily see the cuts you are making.


Proofing a plate / Carbon paper method (This method reverses image to "Right" reading.)
Proofing a plate / Graphite Rubbing method (This method does not reverse the image).
You can also sprinkle talc onto the block and use a Matt chip card the talc into the lines and off the printing areas.

Likewise, you can ink the block and pull a proof. Then ghost it and continue to make alterations as needed.

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