Copy Machines

Photocopy machines are an inexpensive and versatile tool in collage. Most artists are never too far from a copy machine or office supply store with a copy center. You can buy a personal copy machine with zoom capability fairly inexpensively, if you really get into it.

You can enlarge, make multiple generations, and change the density and other parameters with a copier. To add color, glaze with paint. Enlarging is one of the most important techniques. Make your major elements large!

Another useful technique is to directly scan small 3-d objects. You can make prints without a camera. It's fast, direct and fun! The Goodyear eraser, shown to the right, was directly copied and enlarged 141% five times.

To experiment further, try moving the 3-d object during the copier scan. Get Salvador Dalí like distortion and other interesting and unpredictible images.

Toner Transfer

Toner transfer works with copy machine prints or laser prints. It will not work with ink jet prints. It is truly the world's easier print making technique. It gives a black and white, somewhat "grayed" print.

The process uses a solvent to transfer the carbon pigment to your art surface. Acetone seems to work the best, but Xylene or paint thinner can be tried. It only transfers well to smooth paper. Hot press watercolor paper or bristol board or a panel are the best options. Canvas has too much texture to get a good transfer. Since the copy is placed face down on the surface, the image will be reversed. If you want a correct reading image, reverse it on a computer or an advanced copy machine.

You also need some pressure. I use a Speedball 4 inch baren, designed for block printing. They are about $20 and available at most art supply stores. You can also use a folded paper towel. If you have access to an art press, you can use that as well. I sometimes use an old 14" x 22" Vandercook Proof Press made for relief printing.

These solvents are toxic and flamable! I work in the garage next to an open door or a large studio. Use common sense.

Here are the steps

1. Position your photocopy or laser print face down on your smooth paper. Tape with drafting tape to keep it from slipping.

2. Wet the back of the photocopy or laser print with acetone. Use a spray bottle or pour solvent on a folded paper towel and apply it. I like the spray bottle.

3. Use a baren, paper towel or press to apply even pressure.

4. Remove the photo copy and throw it away. You can only use it once, despite that an image is still there.

A toner transfer demo is done at most of our workshops. It has many other uses, such as creating hand tinted prints and other original art.