Step Etch: Aquatint Etching Intensive

Students will be guided through the fundamentals of copper plate etching, focusing on the aquatint etching process during this two-session intensive. Aquatint is an etching technique used to achieve tone; by adjusting the timing of the etch, varying visual results are produced.
 
We will cover plate preparation, rosin grinding, aquatint melting techniques, along with tips and tricks for blocking out. A deep dive into etching timing, ink mixing, and printing techniques will also be conducted.
 
This class is suitable for all levels; students can experiment without a specific image in mind or spend time meticulously developing a design. The image designs should be monochromatic, as shown in the example images. We will break down your image into multiple steps of tonal information to create a step-etched image. Please note that this etching method does not produce pencil-like marks or any drawn visual shading. The more complex and intricate your image is, the longer this process will take. If you are a beginner, please bring a simple image or a few options to choose from on the day of the class. I will also provide some premade image samples that participants can trace and use if they prefer not to bring an image.
 
All participants will create one etching and leave with a new skill, along with multiple prints.
 
Artwork examples by Courtney Sennish.

Class fee: $300
Materials fee: $40

Materials Included: 

• 6”x 8” copper plate
• Choice of cotton rag paper for printing: White 300 g/m Hahnemuhle or 300 g/m Soft White Somerset 
• Use of studio expendables, including acid, rosin, asphaltum, inks, whiting, tarlatan, rags, solvents, etc.