Multiple Block Print

In the production of this project the desired image is scanned and reversed. The image is printed, and pasted onto as many block of wood, either Shina or Cherry ply-wood, as there are colors. Each color, or shade for chiaroscuro, is hand-carved individually into separate blocks. For each block the remaining area, or un-carved area, is inked with a roller called a "brayer". The paper is placed over each piece of inky wood, with a couple days for drying in between, and printed by hand. The tool used to create a "hand-pulled" print is the "baren", or a textured disk. The baren takes a little skill to use but prints cleanly, and is not limited by the size of wood, like printing presses. This project is my personal favorite, because it uses both western and eastern techniques. For example: A "western" brayer is used for inking the block, then a Japanese baren to print the image. The cost of the print is calculated by adding labor, $10/hr, and the price of supplies going into the project. Please keep in mind, cost ranges represent the difference between a simple and complex image.