A Printing Process

 
 

I bargained with myself that if I could get X, Y and Z done on my to do list, I could hit the library’s used book sale, get my hair cut and start work on a new block print. I like used books. I dislike frizzy hair. And I really, really like love block printing. So needless to say, my to do list actually got finished this week.

I’ve based this illustration on photographs of women peat gatherers from the 19th century (who also frequently knit while hauling their baskets, which is hardcore multi-tasking). The image on the left is a Photoshop mockup, where I traced over a scan of my original pencil sketch. I then printed this and transferred the design to the block. And at the stage pictured, I painted over the pencil transfer with ink. In the past, I’d start carving once I had the pencil sketch transferred, but found myself struggling to envision the final print while working. But painting the exact areas I want to print has helped a ton, removing a lot of guesswork. I’ve gotten a fair amount of carving time in this week, so am hoping to start printing next week.

Also, I held my breath for most of the time I was cutting those facial features. And that is decaf in my coffeee mug, because sharp objects and being overly caffeinated don’t mix well, in my experience.

The Lay of the Land

 
 

Life right now, in no particular order.

  • I’m working on a picture book dummy at the moment. It’s a change of pace for me, having to think through both words and images. I’ve lost track of how many versions of the text there’s been. There needs to be quite a few more. But this is the sort of project that for too long I’ve said, “someday,” and it feels good to finally say, “today” (even if I do want to frequently bang my head against the wall).

  • Daffodil season is the best season. To be fair, they are my favorite flower, so I may be slightly biased. But if you remember this scene from the movie “Big Fish,” you understand.

  • I finished knitting Caitlin Hunter’s Ghost Horses sweater and I’d wear it everyday if it were socially acceptable, that’s how much I love this pattern. I knit Size 1 in KnitPicks stroll and didn’t make any modifications. I knit this for most of the winter, while drinking my morning coffee and seeing those horses slowly appear over the course of the weeks was a thrill.

  • Sweeney Astray is a splendid read.

  • I started working on notes for an online class, but then got to wondering if this is of interest. Possibly? To Anyone? Tentatively, I have outlines for either a botanical illustration class or a workshop dealing with sketchbooks and creativity. All that to say, I’m open to either. Or neither. And if you have ideas, I’m all ears and feel free to drop a line.

Oona

 
 

If you’re in the Portland, Oregon area, I’ll have a couple illustrations available as part of the Salut! 7 Coaster Art Show. The show opens May 18, but if you aren’t a denizen of the west coast, the art will be available online the day after.

Spring Sketches

 
 

A random assortment of sketchbook things as of late. Yes, that is 110% my dog holding the flag. Unfortunately, she’s not nearly disciplined enough to carry a banner into war. Yet. Hope springs eternal.

Assorted odds and ends:

  • The Printed Peanut has a Spoonflower shop now (!) and I’m itching to sew a shirt in this print.

  • The Forager’s Pantry is a fascinating look at cooking with all manner of wild plants.

  • Most of what I’m listening to at the moment.

  • Anne’s Tragical Tea Party is on the Tundra Top Ten list for March (alongside some other splendid titles).

  • I binged all the episodes of Atlantic in one go and it’s so good. A sad tale, told well, that’ll leave you thinking about the story of the man who called himself Peter Bergmann long, long after you’ve finished.

  • I’ve taken to mending socks lately, because I’d rather save my dispensable income for coffee, books and the ever-elusive dream of a house (in this market, oof). But what started as an attempt at thriftiness has become a bit of a hobby — I’ve found this is a great resource for getting started at mending, with lots of creative examples.