9.2 Paper properties and characteristics

Paper properties and characteristics are crucial in printmaking. Different types, from Western to Eastern, handmade to machine-made, and archival to non-archival, affect the final product's quality and longevity. Understanding these variations helps artists choose the best substrate for their work.

Physical properties like weight, texture, and color influence printing techniques and outcomes. Chemical composition, including cellulose fibers and additives, impacts paper behavior and aging. Selecting the right paper involves considering compatibility with printing methods, aesthetic goals, and preservation needs.

Types of printmaking paper

• Printmaking papers play a crucial role in the quality and longevity of printed artwork
• Different types of paper affect the final appearance, texture, and durability of prints
• Understanding paper types helps printmakers choose the best substrate for their specific techniques and artistic vision

Western vs Eastern papers

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• Western papers typically made from cotton or linen fibers, resulting in a sturdy and durable substrate
• Eastern papers often crafted from plant fibers like kozo, gampi, or mitsumata, known for their strength and translucency
• Western papers generally have a more uniform texture, while Eastern papers exhibit a more organic, varied surface
• Eastern papers tend to be thinner and more absorbent, making them ideal for techniques like woodblock printing

Handmade vs machine-made papers

• Handmade papers characterized by irregular edges (deckle) and unique textures created during the production process
• Machine-made papers offer consistency in thickness, texture, and size, suitable for large-scale print runs
• Handmade papers often preferred for their artisanal quality and individual character in fine art printmaking
• Machine-made papers provide uniform absorbency and surface finish, beneficial for certain printing techniques (lithography)

Archival vs non-archival papers

• Archival papers designed to resist deterioration and maintain color stability over time
• Non-archival papers may contain acids or lignin, leading to yellowing and brittleness as they age
• Archival papers often made from 100% cotton or alpha cellulose fibers, ensuring longevity
• pH-neutral or slightly alkaline archival papers protect prints from environmental factors (air pollution)

Physical properties of paper

Weight and thickness

• Paper weight measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds (lbs), indicating the paper's density
• Thickness, or caliper, measured in mils or points, affects the paper's rigidity and printing characteristics
• Heavier papers (300 gsm or higher) commonly used for fine art prints and etchings
• Lighter papers (below 200 gsm) often employed for relief printing or lithography

Texture and surface finish

• Surface texture ranges from smooth (hot-pressed) to rough (cold-pressed or rough)
• Smooth papers ideal for detailed line work and fine halftones in techniques like engraving
• Textured papers add visual interest and can enhance the appearance of certain printing techniques (woodcuts)
• Surface finishes include matte, semi-gloss, and glossy, each affecting ink absorption and visual appearance

Color and opacity

• Paper color influences the overall appearance of the print, with white papers providing maximum contrast
• Natural or off-white papers can create a warmer tone in the final print
• Opacity refers to the paper's ability to prevent show-through of printing on the reverse side
• High opacity papers crucial for double-sided printing or when layering multiple colors

Grain direction

• Grain direction refers to the alignment of paper fibers during manufacturing
• Papers expand and contract more across the grain than with the grain when exposed to moisture
• Proper grain direction important for dimensional stability in multi-color printing
• Grain direction affects folding and binding properties in book arts and printmaking projects

Chemical composition

Cellulose fibers

• Cellulose forms the primary structural component of paper, derived from plant sources
• Long-fiber papers (cotton, linen) provide greater strength and durability
• Short-fiber papers (wood pulp) offer smoother surfaces but may be less durable
• Cellulose fiber type and processing method influence paper's printmaking characteristics

Sizing agents

• Internal sizing added during paper production to control absorbency and improve surface strength
• External sizing applied to paper surface to enhance printability and reduce feathering
• Common sizing agents include rosin, starch, and synthetic polymers
• Proper sizing crucial for achieving crisp lines and preventing ink bleeding in various printing techniques

Fillers and additives

• Fillers (calcium carbonate, clay) added to improve opacity, brightness, and smoothness
• Optical brightening agents (OBAs) sometimes used to enhance paper whiteness
• Retention aids help distribute fibers and fillers evenly throughout the paper
• Some additives can affect paper's archival quality and should be considered for long-term preservation

Paper behavior

Absorbency and ink reception

• Absorbency determines how quickly and deeply ink penetrates the paper surface
• Highly absorbent papers suitable for techniques like woodblock printing and letterpress
• Less absorbent papers ideal for techniques requiring precise ink control (lithography, screen printing)
• Ink reception affected by paper surface chemistry, influencing dot gain and color saturation

Dimensional stability

• Refers to paper's ability to maintain its size and shape under varying environmental conditions
• Important for multi-color printing, where precise registration is crucial
• Affected by factors such as fiber type, sizing, and manufacturing process
• Papers with good dimensional stability resist cockling and warping during printing and drying

Aging and yellowing

• Paper aging influenced by chemical composition, storage conditions, and environmental factors
• Acid-free papers resist yellowing and embrittlement over time
• Lignin content in wood-based papers can lead to accelerated yellowing and deterioration
• UV exposure can cause color shifts and weakening of paper fibers in non-archival papers

Paper selection criteria

Compatibility with printing techniques

• Different printing methods require specific paper characteristics for optimal results
• Intaglio printing benefits from softer, more absorbent papers to capture fine details
• Relief printing techniques often work well with both smooth and textured papers
• Screen printing requires papers with good ink holdout to maintain crisp edges

Aesthetic considerations

• Paper color, texture, and finish contribute to the overall visual impact of the print
• Consider how paper characteristics interact with the artwork's subject matter and style
• Deckle edges or unique textures can add artistic value to certain print editions
• Paper weight and rigidity affect presentation options (framing, portfolio inclusion)

Longevity and preservation

• Archival-quality papers essential for valuable or historically significant prints
• Consider pH levels, lignin content, and optical brightener usage for long-term stability
• Proper storage and handling practices crucial for maintaining print quality over time
• Balance between aesthetic preferences and conservation requirements in paper selection

Paper handling and storage

Proper storage conditions

• Store papers flat in a cool, dry environment to prevent warping and moisture damage
• Maintain consistent relative humidity (45-55%) to avoid dimensional changes
• Protect papers from direct sunlight and UV exposure to prevent yellowing and fading
• Use acid-free storage materials (boxes, folders) to prevent chemical degradation

Acclimatization before printing

• Allow papers to adjust to the printing environment's temperature and humidity before use
• Acclimatization prevents unexpected dimensional changes during printing process
• Typically requires 24-48 hours for papers to reach equilibrium with surroundings
• Proper acclimatization especially important for multi-color prints requiring precise registration

Handling techniques for delicate papers

• Use clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves when handling fine art papers
• Support large sheets with both hands to prevent creasing or tearing
• Avoid touching the printing surface to prevent oil transfer from skin
• Use a paper guide or folder when cutting or tearing deckle-edged papers to maintain edge quality

Paper treatments

Sizing and coating

• Additional sizing can be applied to adjust paper's absorbency for specific printing needs
• Coatings enhance surface properties for improved ink reception and color brilliance
• Gelatin sizing often used to strengthen paper surface and control ink penetration
• Gesso or other ground applications prepare paper surfaces for mixed media techniques

Dampening techniques

• Dampening paper before printing can enhance ink reception and detail reproduction
• Methods include misting, blotting, or immersion, depending on paper type and printing technique
• Proper dampening crucial for intaglio printing to allow paper to mold into plate recesses
• Over-dampening can lead to dimensional instability and potential damage to paper fibers

Toning and coloring

• Paper can be toned or colored to create unique backgrounds for prints
• Tea staining provides a subtle, warm tone to papers
• Watercolor washes or acrylic inks used for more vibrant or specific color effects
• Consider lightfastness of toning materials for long-term color stability of the artwork

Environmental considerations

Sustainable paper production

• Sustainable forestry practices ensure responsible sourcing of wood pulp for paper production
• Energy-efficient manufacturing processes reduce environmental impact of papermaking
• Water conservation and recycling systems minimize water usage in paper production
• Certifications (FSC, PEFC) indicate papers produced with environmental stewardship in mind

Recycled vs virgin fiber papers

• Recycled papers reduce demand for new raw materials and decrease landfill waste
• Virgin fiber papers often provide higher quality and consistency for fine art printmaking
• Recycled papers may have shorter fibers, affecting strength and printability
• Blend of recycled and virgin fibers can balance environmental concerns with print quality requirements

Eco-friendly paper options

• Tree-free papers made from alternative fibers (bamboo, hemp, cotton linters) offer sustainable options
• Chlorine-free bleaching processes reduce harmful chemical usage in paper production
• Carbon-neutral papers offset environmental impact through various sustainability initiatives
• Consider local paper sources to reduce transportation-related carbon emissions