Lithography

Lithography is the printing of designs using a lithographic stone (generally porous limestone). Preparation of the stones required for lithography usually involves the surface being grinded, either to remove previous ink layers and to make a surface even, ready to receive ink and print.

Hydrophilic areas are sectioned off. These are the areas that will accept water, whereas hydrophobic areas will repel water.

Ink is transferred via a plate with the reversed image etched in, hand painted drawn in wax or using modern etching equipment such as laser printing. Different chemical baths are used depending on the technique being followed. Traditionally gum Arabic solution is used, before paper or cotton is placed over the slab and rolled to gather the impression of the ink from the limestone.

This process can be repeated using multiple stones of other colours. Artists famous for lithography include Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, a Parisian artist who famously produced colour lithographs for the Moulin Rouge cabaret opening.

Lithography can be difficult with no access to suitable stone. Several other techniques can be used including the use of tinfoil. Click here.

If your art faculty has its own limestone blocks then lithography can be a great technique with which to experiment. Remember to document all practice attempts in your working diary to show progression of ideas.