This recipe is based on the very ancient and little-known Japanese process called the Moku Hanga technique of making your own water-based relief inks.
This ancient technique has always used all non-toxic ingredients. The ink is for wood block prints but can also be used for linoleum cuts and mono prints.
Ingredients:
- Earth & Mineral Pigments
- Alcohol (preferably gin- makes ink more archival and durable)
- Nori (Rice Paste)
Optional Ingredients:
- Magnesium Carbonate
Tools:
- Roller or soft brush
- Palette
- Small container
- Palette Knife
Step 1: Mix 1 tsp alcohol and 1 tsp. water (1:1).
Step 2: Mix pigment with gin/water mixture in a small container to make creamy ink consistency.
Step 3: Scoop ink onto palette.
Step 4: Add 1-2 tsp. Nori paste, thinned with a little water.
Optional: If ink needs to be thicker, add Magnesium Carbonate (Mag. Mix- optional), about ½ tsp., adjusting as needed.
Step 5: Continue to mix with a palette knife until the ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 6: Roll out until it’s evenly coating the roller (note: if it’s not sticking to the roller well, add more Nori).
Step 7: Roll onto your printing surface.
Step 8: Print with your desired technique, either with a press or with a barren.
Notes:
- The ancient Japanese technique is to actually brush the inks on the woodblocks with a wide, short bristled brush, rubbing the ink into wood vigorously. They also used wet paper to print on, although dry is what we used.
- This recipe makes enough ink to make 1-2 prints. Mix more to make more prints.
- All pigments have different absorption qualities and drying times, so adjust the recipe as needed.
Recipe from printmaker Shannon Yost.
Interested in more recipes featuring Natural Earth Paint products? Visit our Recipes page!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for more natural inspiration.