This is an original hand-pulled drypoint print. Limited edition of 6 prints.

This print depicts a solitary magpie, perched on a fence, looking back at the viewer.

I loved the expression on this little magpie's face, as if he is comfortable in his observation, unthreatened, yet curious as to who you are.

Drypoint printing is a form of printmaking referred to as "intaglio" printmaking.

For the process of drypoint printmaking, a sharp, needle like tool is used to "scratch" the image on the surface of the plate. The plate can be metal, plastic or cardboard.

For this print, I used cardboard etching board, also known commercially as "Tetra-Pak".

This specialty cadboard, has a traditional cardboard layer with a thin coating of aluminium and polyethylene on top, making it idial for scribing, peeling, and wiping off ink.

The scribing process is a detailed and time consuming process, and requires a high level of attention and patience.

The plate is then inked with archival quality ink and printed on acid free archival quality printmaking paper, using a printing press.

After I have printed the the plate and allowed the ink to dry, I then add a watercolour wash by hand.

Each sheet is hand torn to the required size. Your print will have three deckled edges and one hand torn edge.

Due to the nature of the handmade process, each print is unique and will have slight variations.

Paper Size: 38cm x 28cm

Image Size: 18cm x 16cm (approx)

Ink: Cranfield Caligo Safewash

Watercolour: Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolours

Paper: Somerset Velvet Printmaking Paper 250gsm

Each print is signed, titled, and numbered in pencil on the front, near the bottom of the paper.

Packaging: Your print will be packaged within a plastic sleeve with acid free backing board. The print will be shipped in a rigid mailer.