Edge of Salt Marsh - Hilary Kington - an original woodcut print

Original prints - variable edition woodcut - Edge of Salt Marsh 3

Edge of Salt Marsh is a series of hand printed woodcuts and because they are hand printed each one is different. When you apply more ink and press firmly you get a solid imprint. When you apply less ink and press gently you get a lovely texture. To make this series even more special I hand printed free-flying ducks in the margin.

Because no two are the same in either texture or colour the Edge of Salt Marsh prints are classed as variable edition prints (V/E).

How I printed the Edge of Salt Marsh

I carved 3 woodblocks. You carve woodblocks in reverse so it takes a bit of thought (text can be really challenging).
You take multiple test prints to highlight high spots and unwanted marks.
When satisfied with the carving you can begin the printing process. I wanted a graduated background colour so inked up a blank woodblock to get a light to dark effect.
After the background ink had dried I was ready to ink up the master woodblock.
I printed this on top of the background colour before repeating the process with the remaining 2 blocks.

I used fade-resistant inks on acid-free paper so the prints will stand the test of time.