Definition
Collagraph, also known as collograph printing, is a printmaking technique that involves building up a printing plate from textured materials. Artists glue or assemble items such as cardboard, fabric, string, sandpaper, or found objects onto a base, creating a surface full of ridges, dips, and patterns. Once sealed and inked, the plate can be printed to produce richly textured images. Because it allows almost limitless experimentation with materials, collagraph is considered one of the most versatile and accessible methods in contemporary printmaking.
How It’s Used in Printmaking
In a collagraph workflow:
- Construct the plate – Materials are glued onto a sturdy base such as cardboard, wood, or metal. Common items include textiles, papers, leaves, and textured tapes.
- Seal and dry – A coating of shellac, varnish, or acrylic medium is often applied to strengthen the surface and make it ink-ready.
- Apply ink – The plate can be inked in relief (inking only the raised surfaces), intaglio (pushing ink into the recesses), or as a combination of both.
- Print the image – Dampened paper is placed over the plate and run through a press, or hand-burnished, to transfer the textures.
Collagraph sits between relief and intaglio methods, combining aspects of both. Beginners are drawn to its use of everyday, inexpensive materials, while professionals exploit its flexibility to create highly layered and experimental textures.
History & Origins
Collagraph emerged in the mid-20th century as artists sought more experimental approaches to printmaking beyond traditional wood, stone, or metal matrices. The name comes from the Greek kolla (“to glue”) and graph (“to draw/write”), reflecting its collage-like construction. The technique spread in both the United States and Europe, where artists used it to break away from academic traditions and embrace texture, improvisation, and mixed media. By the 1960s and 70s, collagraph printing had become firmly established in print workshops and art schools, encouraging a freer, more experimental spirit in the printmaking community.
Variations & Related Terms
Collagraph is extremely adaptable, with many possible approaches:
- Relief collagraph – Ink rolled onto the raised textures only.
- Intaglio collagraph – Ink worked into the recessed areas and wiped back, similar to etching.
- Combined inking – Using both relief and intaglio on the same plate for complex effects.
- Mixed media collagraph – Incorporating painting, monoprinting, or chine-collé with collagraph textures.
See also: Relief Printing
See also: Intaglio
See also: Monotype
Modern Applications
Today, collagraph printing is widely used in fine art studios, classrooms, and community workshops. Its low cost and emphasis on experimentation make it particularly appealing for education, while professional artists employ it for ambitious works that exploit texture and depth. Many printmakers adopt eco-friendly approaches, using recycled materials for plates and non-toxic, water-based inks. Digital tools can also be incorporated, with designs planned digitally before being built into collagraph plates. Its flexibility and inclusivity ensure collagraph remains a vital method for both hobbyists and contemporary artists.
Practical Tips & Products
- Plate construction – Use sturdy bases (cardboard, mount board, or wood) to prevent warping under press pressure.
- Material selection – Combine rough and smooth textures for variety. Avoid materials that are too thick or sharp, which may damage paper or presses.
- Sealing – Always seal plates with varnish or acrylic medium to strengthen surfaces and make them easier to ink and clean.
- Inks and papers – Choose uncoated, absorbent papers and experiment with both relief and intaglio inks for different effects.
- Experimentation – Embrace improvisation—collagraph thrives on creative use of everyday and unexpected materials.
Hickman Design provides starter kits and materials for collagraph, helping both beginners and advanced printmakers explore this uniquely tactile technique.
