Monoprints

This charming one-of-a-kind flower created by Robin D.

With monoprints, only one print can be made from each original design, but you can repaint the printing surface and draw as many new designs as you like! Students of all ages will enjoy charming results. Remember that any words or letters you write will print in reverse!

Materials:

• Aluminum foil (a little larger then the paper you want to print on)
• Masking tape
• Tempera paint (in whatever color you want your print to be)
• Paper plate for palette
• 1” Foam brush
• Q-tip (or other dull drawing instrument)
• Paper to print on
• Baby wipes

Directions:
1. Tape a piece of aluminum foil onto your work surface, or better yet, cover a piece of cardboard with foil so you can turn it different directions. (You can also use plexiglass or any other “wipeable” surface.)
2. Lay your paper onto the foil and trace around it with a pencil.
3. Then place masking tape around the inside of the shape you just traced. (This will give you a clean border around your finished print, and a place where you can pick it up without getting paint on your fingers.)
4. Pour a little paint onto your paper plate palette.
5. Paint inside your taped off area. Try not to get any paint on the tape, but if you do, just carefully clean it off with a baby wipe.
6. Now use a Q-tip to draw a simple design in the paint.
7. Place your paper over the taped area (if you are making a card, check to be sure it will open the right direction!) and press down firmly. Rub well with your fingers!
8. Carefully peel away your paper and set your print aside to dry.
9. Repaint your foil and draw another design to make your next print!