1st Step: CREATING TEXTURES, OF COURSE!

  As the practice began with scratchboard,we always find time to discover new varieties of color and line interactions that will become an integral part of the etching process. The possible variations are endless. But this time, where black and white expressed the beauty of strong contrast, color will enhance the textural compositions created. Note that the drawing hues for the textures are light values to contrast against the black background. Here are a few:

BACKGROUND COLORS

  The tendency to use black as the overall etching background is common and a very good choice. However, we experimented with other hues and found two more that offered exciting options. See them below!

  These two color "swatches" were among several that we attempted. Actually, other hues like red, green, brown and gray would be alternative backgrounds, remembering to adjust the basic drawing hues underneath to contrast well with them.

  One more thing to try: reverse contrasts, that is, all dark drawing hues with high value backgrounds like yellow, white, pale greens, blues, oranges, etc. Try small swatches for quick estimates and then experiment with more detailed drawings. Enjoy!

PROCESS REVIEW

• Use a paper material able to withstand crayon overlay, tempera coverage and layer scratching without buckling.
• Allow at least a 1" margin for paint containment. Put the registration marks here.
• Apply crayon hues to the design evenly and firmly as previously described.
• With tracing paper, outline the major design areas and registration marks. Chalk the back of this paper and set it aside.
• Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of Plaster of Paris over the entire design spreading the powder evenly. Shake off the excess.
• Thin desired tempera paint color to a flowing but opaque consistency. Brush over the plaster coated design and spread the paint evenly. Do not paint over the registration marks. The tempera/plaster combination promotes good adhesion of the paint to the waxy surface. A 2nd coat of paint in a crossed direction will produce an even background coating.
• Tape the outlined tracing paper in place overlapping registration marks. Pencil over the sketch depositing chalk outlines of the original design.
• With an etching tool, remove the paint from the chalked lines first. That should reveal the major forms and with that information, texture etching can nicely proceed to its exciting conclusion.

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