Printmaking is a versatile form of art that involves creating designs or images on a matrix surface. These designs are then inked and transferred onto a piece of paper or another surface, allowing the artist to make multiple copies of their work.

Traditional printmaking techniques include block printing, etching, lithography, and screen printing.

Block Printing: Block printing involves carving an image into a wood or linoleum block. Ink is then added to the raised areas and pressed down to transfer the image.

Etching: Etching is an intaglio printmaking process where a metal plate coated with an acid-resistant substance is drawn on before it’s dipped in acid to remove the metal where the drawing was made. Afterwards, ink is added and pressed onto the surface.

Lithography: With lithography, an image is drawn onto a smooth surface, typically a stone or metal plate, using greasy materials. The surface is then treated with a chemical solution which sticks to the greasy materials but doesn’t attract water. Ink is applied to the surface and then transferred onto paper.

Screen Printing: Screen printing involves creating a stencil on a fine mesh screen. The ink transfers onto the printing surface through the screen using a squeegee to create the final image. Images with multiple colours require multiple screens.

Block printing materials and tools include:

1. Carving tools like linoleum blades or chisels can be used to carve your desired design into your block.
2. A roller or brayer to apply the ink evenly.
3. High-quality ink.
4. Printmaking paper or fabric.

Shop our selection of block printing materials to get started.

Depending on your skill level, a variety of tools can be used in the screen printing process. The most common and available to all levels are screens, ink, palette knives, and squeegees.

Screens act as the foundation for screen printing and are typically made of a fine mesh material that is stretched over a wood or aluminum frame. The mesh is then coated with an emulsion that hardens when exposed to light, creating a stencil.

Either a water-based or solvent-based ink that is formulated for screen printing is used, while palette knives are used to scoop out the ink and transfer it onto the screen. Lastly, a squeegee is required to push ink through the mesh screen onto the printing surface.

Block Printing: We offer a selection of block printing materials to help you create bold, graphic images from materials like wood or linoleum.

Etching & Lithography: Our etching and lithography tools help artists carve or draw their images onto various surfaces, creating detailed and intricate artworks.

Screen Printing: With our screen printing supplies, artists can create bold prints in a variety of colours and gradients on posters, t-shirts, and fine art prints.

Above Ground Art Supplies offers a range of high-quality printmaking brands, including:

• Cranfield Caligo
• AKUA
• Speedball
• Graphic Chemical
• EC Lyons
• Jack Richeson
• Charbonnel
• Jacquard
• Gamblin
• Gelli Arts
• RGM

In addition to our selection of professional painting tools, we offer a range of quality art materials, including:

• Brushes
• Paint
• Drawing Tools
• Art Canvases & Panels
• Art Paper & Boards
• Sculpture Tools
• Studio Supplies
• Art Presentation & Storage
• Art Framing
• Drafting & Graphics
• Adhesives & Cutting Tools
• Kids Art Supplies

Above Ground Art Supplies is more than a retailer — we’re artists helping artists. We understand the importance of quality and value when it comes to creating works of art. That’s why we’ve dedicated our efforts to being Toronto and Southern Ontario’s go-to source for a range of supplies and materials, including our selection of premium printmaking and carving tools. With two retail locations and a surplus of online products, our accessibility and convenience set us apart. We source the hard-to-find items you need to elevate your artwork and offer resources for both professional artists and students.

If you’re looking for printmaking ideas, Above Ground Art Supplies can help you bring your artistic vision to life. We offer the highest quality products from reputable suppliers across North America and worldwide. Visit us in-store at 74 McCaul Street or 2868 Dundas St. W, or shop our products online.