Solar Plate: FAQs
Do I need to make the transparency a mirror image of the print I want, as I would have to with collagraph, drypoint or linocut?
No. Solar plates produce prints that are the same as the image side of the transparency - not mirror images. This is because the image side of the transparency goes face down on the photopolymer, producing a mirror image on the solar plate. Printing this then reverses the mirror image.
Do I need a different transparency for relief than for intaglio?
Yes. For a relief plate, a film negative is needed. (You can get this either by drawing the negative, by using a sophisticated photocopier that can create negatives from your positive image, by using the <invert> command on computer graphics software, or by asking print bureau to produce a negative film.
For an intaglio plate, a film positive is needed. This is much easier to draw, photocopy or print
What technical information do I need to give a print bureau?
| The size of film you want (i.e. the plate and print size you’re after) | e.g. A3 |
| Negative or positive | Negative for a relief plate
Positive for an intaglio plate |
| Orientation | "Right-reading, emulsion up" |
| Screen ruling | "110 lpi (lines per inch)" is recommended for solar plate making |
Where can I get solar plate materials?
Artists' and Fine Art Printmakers' suppliers in Britain are not yet stocking solar plate. You need to find a friendly supplier in the commercial "flexography" printing industry. You may need to club together with others because most printing industry suppliers are reluctant to sell less than a complete pack of forty (or twenty, depending on sizes) plates costing several hundred £. As a rough guide, an A4 plate costs about £10. Remember to ask for photopolymer plate, not solar plate (which is a fine art printmking term).
Are there any health & safety issues I should be aware of?
See the advice on the health & safety page