What do printmakers do with their misprints?
What is a misprint?
Misprints can be removed from an edition of prints for a number of reasons. Sometimes layers don't line up properly, ink smudges or issues with the paper. Most of the print is still great but it’s not to the standard that artists want to present to their clients - printmakers pride themselves on the quality of their work.
I want to just define some terms here before moving on though..
Misprint - a print containing an error of some sort
Ghost Print - a print that has been deliberately printed using minimal ink to test the layout and qualities of a print block
Artist’s Proof - defined by printed-editions.com as ‘…a term used in printmaking to describe a limited number of prints that are made outside of the regular numbered edition of a print. Artist’s proofs are typically printed before the numbered edition and are used as a way for the artist to make final adjustments to the image or to experiment with different colour combinations.’
What I do with my misprints
The vast majority of my misprints are collected up and put aside for a time when I’m between projects. I combine them off cuts of paper covered in excess inks from a print run.
When it comes to a point in the year where I am between collections and needing some creative time, I get out the box and play. Sometimes something beautiful emerges and it becomes a one off piece of art that I sell, sometimes it’s just an opportunity for me to flex my creative muscles. It has been know for these sessions to spark off ideas for future collections too. Time spent collaging is never wasted time.
When I’m working in my sketchbook trying out ideas, I often reach for that same box for colour ideas, backgrounds and textures. It’s a fun process and really loosens my up.
Ebb and Flow - one of a kind collage
When you want to relax after a busy day and dream about the sea, this 3D textured wave wall art is the answer to problem!
Imagine pouring a glass of wine after a long day at work having put the kids to bed. You sit in your favourite chair with a blanket and daydream about standing at the edge of the waves, feeling them lapping against your toes with the reassuringly fresh water, the smell of the salty sea air and the soft sand beneath your feet – while never having to worry about whether you can make it to the beach again.
The best bits in a nutshell:
- high quality archival inks and papers that will outlast you
- 3D layers create a depth you can get lost in
- ready framed so all you have to do is hang it and enjoy
Other details:
- framed measures 24 x 24cm
- one of a kind
- spread the cost over 3 months when paying with PayPal
Each print is carefully wrapped with a personal note from the artist and sent via Royal Mail.
Want to see the print before you buy? You can contact me to book a studio visit or let me know you're attending one of my events and I'll have a print ready for you to view.
ℹ️ Additional Information (EU GPSR 2025 Compliant):
Edition size: 1
Collage
created using printed papers: oil-based inks on archival Fabriano Unica paper
Art dimensions: 24 × 24 cm
Comes framed
Shipped with protective wrapping and a handwritten note from the artist
Sent via Royal Mail
Spanish City Dome - one of a kind collage
Whatever the weather, it's always a great day for an ice cream in Whitley Bay outside Spanish City staring up at the impressive dome.
This ready framed collage artwork will bring back those memories of summers by the sea, fish and chips on the benches by Spanish City and the waves lapping in the background.
This cool coloured piece created with handprinted papers and wire is here to bring the joy of this local architectural gem into your home.
The frame is birch effect with perspex for safety.
The Details:
Frame size 25cm square and 3cm deep
Paper are printed in oil based inks for vibrancy and longevity
Paper is archival quality for long life
Mounted on high quality mount board
Other landmarks available
Find more landmarks here.
ℹ️ Additional Information (EU GPSR 2025 Compliant):
Edition size: 1
Collage
created using wire and printed papers: oil-based inks on archival Fabriano Unica paper
Art dimensions: 25 × 25 cm
Bespoke framing available on request
Shipped with protective wrapping and a handwritten note from the artist
Sent via Royal Mail
