Dec 2010

After Darwin: An Organ Injurious

The printing of An Organ Injurious was fairly typical, meaning not too difficult to achieve 85% satisfaction, but a struggle for the last 13% (right, that doesn’t add up to 100% because I can’t recall ever being totally satisfied with something I’ve printed or created). In any case, the dusky orange block printed well, without much inconsistency to be overcome. The biggest problem was the color, which, when matched to the swatch I used for proofing, was too light on the press. I think this was a result of using a brayer to apply the ink when proofing, as opposed to using the inking system on the press, which is more consistent, but puts down thinner layers of ink. If the rollers are adjusted properly, it will also be more likely to retain fine detail. In any case, I had to clean the press and mix a slightly darker version. This shot shows me matching the original swatch.



Here I am printing the orange block. The print above the stack of finished prints is the first print I was satisfied with (density of color, color choice, amount of ink etc.). I keep it there to refer to as I print to maintain consistency. If you look closely, you will see some earlier color trial proofs in the background.



The key block proved more difficult, primarily due to inconsistencies in the block’s thickness. Learning from the color problems printing the orange, I mixed the purplish black darker than my swatch. I judged correctly and the color was not problematic, though getting the block to print evenly was. I had a frustrating enough time that I didn’t bother taking any pictures, but I’m pleased with the final results. The finished prints will be signed and shipped out to our print subscribers this week in order to arrive in time for Christmas.

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