Contemporary Printmaking: Safer Intaglio Techniques and Processes

Discover how to make your studio more sustainable with this hands-on guide to safer printmaking.

Many artists love the art of print but are concerned about the hazardous materials traditionally used in intaglio techniques, including inking and plate preparation. Contemporary Printmaking offers practical advice on lower risk, lower impact alternatives that maintain creativity without compromising health or the environment.

Focusing on acrylic resist etching and metal salt mordants, this book covers techniques for working with copper, aluminium, zinc and steel. You’ll find detailed, illustrated instructions for hard and soft grounds, aquatints, lift resists, wash resists and experimental approaches using accessible, non-toxic materials. Also explored are drypoint, collagraphy, photopolymer, laser engraving and digital hybrid methods – showing how traditional and new techniques can be combined in innovative ways.

Award-winning artist Mark Graver uniquely blends technical depth with sustainability concerns, offering guidance on setting up a home studio, choosing eco-friendly inks and cleaners, and adapting workflows for affordability and accessibility. Fully illustrated with process photography and finished artwork, and with contributions from international artists and educators, Contemporary Printmaking proves that intaglio can remain bold, experimental and environmentally conscious.